So I'm checking out parts and it "looks" like a new CV joint ('97 Civic EX) is about $50 on ebay. I'm also noticing that the entire axle can be had for the same price. I'm no pro, but the pics for the axle look like the CV joint comes attached to it. Am I wrong? Seems like it would be smarter to just replace the entire axle if that's the case.

 

Yep, do the entire axel. It's about an hour job if you have impact wrenches. Piece of cake.

 

best advise take yours off and goto autozone or advance and get one from them, it comes with a lifetime warranty, then if you ever have any problems or later on in life get another 96-00 civic and it needs a cv axle you have a lifetime warranty, they are around 67$ + your old one to buy it.

 

I watched some how to vids on youtube and it doesn't look that bad. I don't have some of the tools that would make it easy (like an impact wrench and compressor), but I think I could manage with a good breaker and some elbow grease. Getting the axle nut off and breaking the ball joint would be the toughest part. Someone posted up a nice DIY here so I'll probably use that.

So you think the whole axle is the way to go, eh? Here's to hoping, lol. I've not done something this big before. My car is just falling apart on me. I just had the right wheel bearing replaced and now the front left CV joint is toast (boot is ripped apart, grease everywhere). I can't win. I also have to tackle my wifes '98 Civic exhaust manifold. Busy summer.

EDIT: Here's the best deal I could find. Look good? http://www.napaonline.com/Search/Det...+2032006+28111

 

hey, the exhaust mani is not that difficult at all. I purchased the 2 piece stock replacement from NAPA and had it done in an hour or 2 (don't remember for sure). I just remember I was taking my time and not worrying about how long it took. But it surprised me how easy it was!