Axle assembly

[Buzz]

I have been considering replacing all the split boots with the originals. I have all the tools including the puller shown in the EI video to get the axle split. What I don't exactly understand is how folks are getting it back together. I recall a discussion that discouraged outright hammering but I would like to know what folks recommend. Thanks Buzz

[undysworld]

Once it's apart, and all the loctite cleaned away, and with the splitter still inserted to keep things as free as possible, the wheel drive assembly usually slides in pretty easily. Gentle banging is okay. Some guys use a ratchet strap to pull them on. I've never needed either. It's pretty easy, just sorta heavy.

[Buzz]

Ha! It figures that I have over thunk something again! My truck came with a case of Swiss tools when I bought it. The box cost me two cases of beer on top of the purchase price of the truck. It included the centering pin for the clutch disc, the ball joint tool for the tie rod ends, the front brake bleeder wrench, spring compressors, and those pullers shown on the EI video for this job. Back when I bought my truck eleven years ago, I had never even changed the oil in my own car before and I hoped I would not need the tools in that case. Since then, I have used almost all of them and without this forum I could never have kept her running!

Thanks for getting back to me. - Buzz

[berger]

I will give you four cases of beer for that toolkit!!

Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk

[Buzz]

Sorry Berger! I realize I got a good deal and I'm sure I will need them in the future.

[crcpinz]

Congrats on your tool box. I should have gotten a set when they were available but were unwilling to pay $660 for it at the time. I thought the split boots were better. I didn't tear the original boots off; they got brittle and cracked. The split boots look less inclined to do that, but time will tell.

[Dogslovetrucks]

I'll be back in Jax this weekend for a 3 day weekend if you need help; let me know. Not that I know what I'm doing, but I'll bring beer.

[TechMOGogy]

Sorry Berger! I realize I got a good deal and I'm sure I will need them in the future.

Yeah but he is offering cases of Canadian beer!!

[Buzz]

crcpinz,
Yes, I have used split boots for years since the original one piece stock ones cracked. I have not been totally happy with the split boots. They puncture easily and seem to let water in too often for my piece of mind. I'm hoping the one piece design is worth the trouble. I figure if I have the tools, I should give it a try.

[crcpinz]

Thank you Buzz. I totally agree that you should use your tools. I'll be extra careful with the gluing of my boots to avoid water getting in.

[krick3tt]

There have been a few posts on the position of the joint for the split boots and the gluing of the joints for maximum protection of the parts that they cover. Jim has posted the most beneficial installation method for these boots and the proper positioning of the joints.

[gunipinzmutt]

Can you pls clarify what kind of sealant is suggested for axle assembly. Is it loctite 518?
Thanks