torn cv boot

[Ascinder]

I think the tool you are referring to is for putting on the metal clamping bands that hold the boots in place. I would get one since trying it any other way is difficult, especially with the CV still installed in the vehicle. A search will yield a wide variety of them. Just look up cv boot clamp tool or cv boot band tool.

[Triathlete]

Or he may be talking about the “cone“ that comes with the mechatech kit...it is helpfull but not necessary.
The band tool however I feel is much more important to get them right. I bought my band tool at checkers for around $10.

[MSHardeman]

If the boot just recently tore then I would say just replacing the boot will be fine, but do it as soon as you can. One of my inner CV boots tore and I kept putting of replacing it and I ended up having to remove the axle to have the outer race refurbished. NOT cheap.

If you really want to get crazy EMPI does make replacement axles for the VX and sometimes you can find them cheaper than the actual boots themselves.

Mecatech does make a CV boot kit that comes with a cone, like Triathlete said, that makes putting the boots on easier, but I think that you still have to remove the short shaft from the rotor. https://www.independent4x.com/mercha...roducts_id=205

[Marlin]

If the boot just recently tore then I would say just replacing the boot will be fine, but do it as soon as you can. One of my inner CV boots tore and I kept putting of replacing it and I ended up having to remove the axle to have the outer race refurbished. NOT cheap.

If you really want to get crazy EMPI does make replacement axles for the VX and sometimes you can find them cheaper than the actual boots themselves.

Mecatech does make a CV boot kit that comes with a cone, like Triathlete said, that makes putting the boots on easier, but I think that you still have to remove the short shaft from the rotor. https://www.independent4x.com/mercha...roducts_id=205

In my experience, I would not waste the 125 bucks for a set 4 mecatechs. Mine are trash. 2.5 out of four ripped in only a few months. My OEM set never ripped...cheaper to buy two brand new CVs off of ebay, they come completely assembled with grease and all. Just install em. Unless you do some serious offroading, they should work just fine.