CV boots-need mechanical advice please

[Cd]

I'm not sure what these things are called, but from what I understand they are CV joint related.
Can someone in the know explain what these rubber boots are and what they do ?
Do they just seal in the grease, or do they perform some other vital function ?

If they do indeed just seal in the grease, can I just clamp them down using a hose clamp, or must I get them replaced ?

What could happen if I continue driving the car with these things split like this ? Will I lose control of the car and crash, or have my wheels fall off ?

I'd like to just be able to clamp them back into place and forget about them, but I'd rather be safe than cheap.

Thanks for any advice !

(This is on a '93 Civic by the way.)

[thebrad]

They protect that joint from dirt, grime, and other elements that could get in there and ruin the ball bearing. Get them replaced ASAP or the repair will only get more expensive.

Since it's a Civic it might just be cheaper to replace the whole axle (remanufactured/refurbished ones are readily available), especially if you can DIY.

You also got the name right.

[Coyote X]

Is it the cv joint or a tie rod?

Looks like it is on the steering to me

[thebrad]

Originally Posted by Coyote X

Is it the cv joint or a tie rod?

Looks like it is on the steering to me

Haha, looks like you're correct. Didn't really pay attention to the location of it from the first pic.

[digitaldissent]

those are inner tie-rod boots

I would check to make sure there is no "play" in the tie-rod ends before just changing the boot. Maybe be better to just change the joint while your at it.

get an alignment when you are done

[ttoyoda]

You will have to doublecheck cause I do not know your engine/transmission details, but
Here:
http://bkhondaparts.com/billkay/jsp/...itch=&hidIrno=

14 53534-SR3-A52 DUST SEAL, TIE ROD
( No Color ) 1 1993 CIVIC 18.21

15 53534-SR3-N52 DUST SEAL, TIE ROD
( No Color ) 1 1993 CIVIC 12.92

And yes you need to change these asap. The crap that gets on the rod will drag back into the seal on the power steering rack and make the seals there leak. Then you will be unhappy.

Use a caliper to measure how much thread is showing past the lock nut on each tie rod end before you take it apart. Put it back this way for your drive to the alignment shop.

[Cd]

What is a honest charge for doing that sort of work ?

[digitaldissent]

its been so long since I worked as a mechanic, best to call around and get quotes.

I would say no more than 2 hours labor for both sides even though with a lift and an impact gun I can remember doing those way faster than that.

let me now what kinda prices you get

[thebrad]

Originally Posted by .Cd

What is a honest charge for doing that sort of work ?

I can try to get you the flat rate labor charge and OEM price cost from AllData within the next two weeks. I'll try cycling out to school tomorrow, see how far I get though, no promises.

[Cd]

So if these things just seal in the grease, why can't I just clean out the gunk in there, regrease it, and then clamp them down using a hose clamp ?

I know it won't work ( otherwise you guys would have suggested it already ) I was just wondering why it wouldn't work.

thebrad Thanks for the offer, but no stress ... I'll just call around to a few shops.