While under my '96 Civic EX coupe D16Y8, 127K miles, I noticed one of the outboard CV joint boots is badly torn and bleeding lube all over. Is it possible to replace the boot, or do I need to replace the entire half-shaft?

If the former, what type of grease should I put in there?

If the latter, should I go ahead and do it now or wait until the half-shaft develops actual operational problems? Is it cool to replace one at a time or should I do them together?

Thanks!

 

My recommendation is that you replace the bad axle with a new one as soon as possible. I recently purchased a brand new axle with a damper from O'Reilly for $85.

 

The boot can be replaced separately. It typically comes as a kit with the boot, clamps, and grease. But the outer joint isn't intended to come apart, so you have to take the inner joint all apart to get the boot onto the outer joint. It's really not worth the hassle. I'd just trade in the whole axle.

 

Gotcha. Thanks, guys.