[Hallock]

I ripped the CV boot on my C5 A6 a month ago, and haven't had any time to fix it. no local auto parts place has a "fix-it boot." I'm getting ready to order a new boot, but was wondering if it'd be a better idea all together to get a new axle.

I get under the car once a week and repack the boot with grease, it was a clean tear, right at the joining of the axle to the tranny. after a few days, it's all gone (obviously). past few days I was vacationing at our cottage in sunset, and the car is pulling every which way. can't take an off-ramp at more than 35, because it feels like the car is going to topple over on itself, rear end comes out (which is fun).

I know I need an alignment, but with the way the car is pulling, it may be the u-joint starting to wear down. I'm just worried about it being pretty shot now, and possibly knuckling at some point while driving, whether or not the boot is repacked/fixed or not. turning from a dead stop gives off a little noise from the joint, but not a clicking or a banging like I've usually heard when an axle's worn out. I can't hear the noise inside the car, but if you're standing close enough outside, you can.

[Vr6Beast]

Just replace the halfshaft

[KurtCav337]

I recently replaced both boots on my drivers side half shaft. It took about 12 hrs include eating, checking DIYs, and several runs to home depot/advance auto. I had the time so I didn't mind. If I was working full time the opportunity costs point to a full replacement. Having said that, I'll still probably replace the pass side ones also just because I have the parts and don't mind taking things apart.

[Yazz Blu]

If the joint has been ran dry, you're better off replacing the whole axle otherwise toss another boot on and keep it going. OEM axles are better than aftermarket anyday.

[RHallock]

I'm replacing the axle now. I've run in to a problem with the pinch bolt, though. it's about 80% out, with less than 5mm of threads left on the outside, and it doesn't seem to be moving the right way. I crank on it for a minute straight, and the threads haven't gone down, and it really looks to me like the bolt is moving backwards, tightening itself.

any ideas? the axle came out fine, both ends of the old one were shot to hell, so I definitely needed the entire shaft replaced.