New CV Joint Boot Clamp Tightening

[steve56]

Buying a 2005 Legacy CV boot kit to replace the ripped inner boot.Whats the proper tool and proceedure for tightening new the boot clamps? 

[987687]

If you don't have the proper tool to get the metal band clamps tight, it's really hard to get enough tension on them. I just use a big beefy zip tie to hold the boots on.

[DaveT]

There are a couple of different tools for different types of bands. A good parts shop should have them, just bring a band.

[lmdew]

For the bands with the little tooth hooks a tile nipper works OK

For the bands that slip under the ring a vise grips and screwdriver used a a pry bar against the vise grips and ring works OK

 

The correct tools are best.  Sometimes I end up using aviation safety wire and just putting several wraps around.  this works well also.

[steve56]

If you don't have the proper tool to get the metal band clamps tight, it's really hard to get enough tension on them. I just use a big beefy zip tie to hold the boots on.

Is a heavy duty zip tie a permanent fix? It sure would be easier than the metal band and neede tool.

[brus brother]

this guy does the boot (inner) without removing the axle... least is best?

[987687]

For the bands with the little tooth hooks a tile nipper works OK

For the bands that slip under the ring a vise grips and screwdriver used a a pry bar against the vise grips and ring works OK

 

The correct tools are best.  Sometimes I end up using aviation safety wire and just putting several wraps around.  this works well also.

Yea, I've used 0.035" aviation lockwire as well. I'm always afraid it'll bite into the boot, though.

[brus brother]

in video above guy reused the existing clamps. they are already bent at exact mark.

[steve56]

in video above guy reused the existing clamps. they are already bent at exact mark.

Yes, I saw that video. Unfortunately my clamps got too bent up to reuse. Great video though. Alot of good info. for someone like me that is doing CV work for the first time.

[forester2002s]

I watched the video.

I recommend cleaning the old grease off of the CV rollers and the inside of the cup, before adding the new grease.

I was surprised that this wasn't done in the video.

[lmdew]

Both style tools under $25.

 

https://www.amazon.com/Qbace-Joint-Clamps-Pliers-Banding/dp/B015IH45ZK/ref=sr_1_3?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1467111923&sr=1-3&keywords=cv+joint+clamp

[steve56]

I watched the video.

I recommend cleaning the old grease off of the CV rollers and the inside of the cup, before adding the new grease.

I was surprised that this wasn't done in the video.

Yes, he should have done that. Good point.

[brus brother]

Yes, he should have done that. Good point.

Agreed, Would brake cleaning spray be a good solvent to clean in place?

[steve56]

Agreed, Would brake cleaning spray be a good solvent to clean in place?

Just received the Beck/Arnley boot clamp kit.

The instructions are:always thorougly clean out the CV joint before repacking with grease. Clean off excess gresse with rag then remove the remainder with warm soapy water. Dry thoroughly. Do not clean with any parts cleaner or petroleum based product. These will leave a deposit incompatible with the new supplied litium based grease.