Hey all,

Just looked under the VX today when doing the fall/winter oil change and noticed my passenger side outer boot was completely ripped all the way around. Felt inside and didn't feel any grit in the grease but I'm worried about how long I've been driving like this (checked the boots when I changed my oil in the spring and they seemed fine).
Anyway, the inner boots are fine - no tears or leaks. The inner cups appear ok as well - no leaks anyway.
So, I know there's a DIY from Tom about how to replace the outer boots, but if the outer joint is somehow compromised (haven't noticed any clicking or play in the wheel yet) and needs to be replaced, which axle shaft do I need to buy?
The one with the inboard housing?
http://www.partstrain.com/store/deta...Passenger_Side
or the one without the inboard housing?
http://www.partstrain.com/store/deta...Passenger_Side
Are there better shafts out there somewhere. I've heard that the cardone rebuilds aren't the greatest. Are the new ones any better?
Also, I'm confused on wether it's better to replace the whole shaft up to the green cup or just the outer joint itself. If I do replace the outer joint, can I somehow mate the new parts onto the old shaft? Sorry for all the ???
Thanks in advance,
ben