Some automotive agents supply protective covers for replacement «split» type that can be installed without removing the drive shaft from the vehicle (they wrap easily around the hinge after cutting off the old cover). It is very comfortable; however, the compilers of this Guide still recommend removing the drive shaft, cleaning the CV joint from dirt and moisture, which shorten its service life, and installing a new one-piece protective cover.
If you notice signs of CV joint wear (usually caused by damaged protective cases), they must be replaced - both hinges can be replaced individually.
Fully remanufactured driveshafts are available on a trade-in basis, saving you a lot of time and effort. In any case, before disassembling the car, find out the cost and availability of all parts.
Examination
CV joints and their protective covers should be inspected regularly and whenever you raise the vehicle. Jack up the vehicle and place it securely on axle stands. Inspect the CV joint boot for cracks, leaks, and broken clamp bands. If grease leaks through a hole or crack in the protective boot, this will lead to premature wear of the CV joint and the need to replace it. Replace damaged covers immediately. Grasping each of the drive shafts in turn, rotate them in both directions and move them in and out to check for play, indicating worn splines or loose joints.
Replacing the CV joint and its protective cover
1. Remove cardan shaft (see Section Removal and installation of cardan shaft).
2. Unclip the protective covers, remove and discard.
3. Open the large clip of the protective cover...
...then the small clip, then remove and discard both.
4. Knock off the protective cover from the CV joint with a hammer and chisel.
5. Remove the large circlip that holds the CV joint to the drive shaft with a pair of special circlip pliers.
6. Gently tap the end of the drive shaft (just not on the CV joint clips) and separate the shaft from the hinge.
7. Remove the old protective cover from the drive shaft.
8. Thoroughly wash the CV joint in solvent. Rinse off all old grease and blow out the solvent with compressed air if possible.
Wear protective goggles when using compressed air.
9. Inspect the CV joint for deep scratches, gouges, cavities, and other signs of wear. If the CV joint is damaged, replace it.
10. Wrap the splines on the end of the drive shaft with duct tape to protect the new boots from damage when they are installed.
11. Install new covers, then remove the tape.
12. Carefully tap the CV joint onto the drive shaft - use a soft-faced hammer to avoid damaging the cage. Install retaining ring.
13. Fill the cavity in the back of the hinge with special grease...
...and push the grease into the joint.
14. Fit the protective boot into the groove on the drive shaft and fit a small clamp and tighten it with the special strip tightening tool (available at any auto parts store).
15. Bend the end of the clip back and cut off the excess.
16. Pack the rest of the hinge with special grease (see illustrations above). Push it into the hinge and then install the protective cover.
17. Install the large clamp and pull it off (see illustrations above).
18. Install the drive shaft (see Section Removal and installation of power shafts).