CV Axle Suggestion

[Zam15]

So looked under my tuck today I saw that my drivers side CV axle gave up the ghost (all of it's grease) @ 92k miles. I called the dealer and they quoted $350!! :Wow1: per axle for a rebuild... Are their any other (more affordable) options? Don't have the proper tools to change them myself and I have heard that the aftermarket CV's just don't hold up.

Anyone have any suggestions?

 

[Mr. Leary]

Keep looking. I'm sure there is someone in your area who can redo the boot for much less. Here in DFW we have a place that can do it for $80.

 

[Bighead]

Find a local shop to do it and if all else fails you can check with Toyota of Dallas for a remanufactured axle.

 

[corax]

I'm gonna assume most of that estimate is parts. Try to find a Toyota tech that does side work and is willing to pass on his employee discount. Just make sure his boss isn't around when you ask or you'll definitely get a "no"

 

[sasaholic]

if your original axle lasted that long for u, i wouldnt worry about putting in an aftermarket axle. ive ran both factory and aftermarket axles and never had a problem one way or the other. u can find used oem and aftermarket axles for around 50 bucks. there super easy to change and the only tools ull need are the tools to change a tire a 14mm socket for the lower bj bolts and a 34 or 35 cant remember socket to loosen the axle nut. an hour job max for someone who hasnt done it and it come down to about 20 minutes for me from the time the truck pulls in the driveway to getting it back on the road. also u can buy boot kits from the parts store or toyota and repack them yourself(its easy just messy)

 

[TRDPARTS4U]

A factory reman. for the 2004 is $200.27 including the $75.00 core charge.

 

[ExploringNH]

I wouldn't (and didn't) hesitate to put an aftermarket axle in. Some of them come with lifetime warranties.

It really isn't that hard of a job. Undo the lower ball joint bolts (14mm), undo the axle nut (I thought it was 32mm, but I could be wrong), and pull the axle out. The new one pops in just as easy. Nothing to adjust or align, and it is all relatively clean work, no grease or oil to worry about.

If you don't want to hassle with doing it yourself, then it shouldnt be too hard to find an independent shop to put one in for you for a lot less than a dealer would charge.

 

[4RunAmok]

Contact the guys at PROTRUX in San Marcos.

I hope they're still there. They are Toyota people themselves, and they know their stuff. They did the lift on my 4runner.

http://www.kudzu.com/m/Protrux-of-San-Marcos-1474351

 

[tacoma_AL]

I just went to a local junkyard to find an old tacoma CV that would fit mine. doesn't matter if it was good or not. I got mine from a pick-n-pull for free and just traded them in to and Auto store so i didn't have to pay the core charge, got a new one and through it on 30 min a side and i was done.

All that was wrong was torn boots on both sides. Next pay check i fixed the original boots and now i have two spares :bike_rider: Just like sasaholic and exploringNh said and you'll be fine. Its not hard at all.....plus you'll gain the experience in case you happen to brake on the trail.

 

[maclean216]

ZAM15,

AES can rebuild and reboot your axle for $42. Just had several of mine done.

AES in San Diego
AES (Automotive Exchange & Supply, 619.282.3207)

If you want any more info or pics, hit me up.

 

[Gerdo]

Either reboot your axles or buy a rebuilt OE.

DO NOT BUY AFTERMARKET JUNK!!!
Most aftermarket parts store axles are made with cheap steal that is poorly heat treated. I have seen them snap off inside the intermediate shaft inside the front diff. This is hard to get out because the snap ring is still holding it in.

Find a local Axle/Driveline shop and reboot or they should carry OE rebuilds.

I have one boot that just split at 220,000 miles. I'm going to yank both and have them rebooted.

 

[Lucky j]

If it just the grease that is gone because of the rubber boots, juste change the boot.

Will cost you about 20$ plus your time, or a 24 case of beer to a freind. Can be done in a drice way without to much tools.

 

[ywen]

What is the general pricing for OE rebuilds? I just got my driver side CV replaced by a shop.. They claim it was a rebuilt OE axle... part cost was $100... Their pricing for brand new Toyota axle was over $400

 

[Zam15]

Thanks everyone for all the recommendations! :sombrero: I have to get this done ASAP so I can make the amazing "SoCal Desert Rendezvous" without having to worry about my axles going out. I will check out some of the local shops that were suggested and see if they can get me in this week or next.

On separate note I am going to start carrying a spare with me, just need to learn how to replace it on the tail. :Mechanic:

Thanks!!!

 

[sasaholic]

add cv's are actually easier to change on the trail because u dont have to take of all the bolts and cone washers like you have to with manual hubs. 1 big nut and it comes out. only problem is it they break completly in half there is no tension on the shaft when wrenching on the nut so it just spins the whole cv(or whats left ) thats when u need the big pliers