Axle Boot Clamps

[SubLGT]

I need to replace a loose clamp on my axle boot (Subaru). The last time I did a similar job was over 20 years ago. Back then even the OE clamps were the very common worm drive clamps. Nowadays, there seems to be a dozen different versions of boot clamps, and three dozen different versions of clamp tightening tools! I didn't realize replacing a boot clamp would be so complex.

(The dealer quoted me 1.5 hours of labor to do the job.

)

I would like to hear your ideas about what is a reliable stainless steel clamp (about 5/16" x 1 3/8") that will not loosen over time, and can be tightened with non-specialist tools (or an inexpensive special tool < $10)

 

[Kool1]

http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/detail/DOR6/614060/N0293.oap?ck=Search_cv+boot+clamps+%26+hardware_-1_3526&keyword=cv+boot+clamps+%26+hardware


I bought and used this from O'reilly. It's basically a metal tie wrap which requires no special tools. I installed it with my fingers and tightened it with a pair of pliers. So far so good.

 

[40Deluxe]

A nylon tie wrap works very good for this,have used them many times

 

[SubLGT]

Originally Posted By: Kool1
http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/detail/DOR6/614060/N0293.oap?ck=Search_cv+boot+clamps+%26+hardware_-1_3526&keyword=cv+boot+clamps+%26+hardware


I bought and used this from O'reilly...............


Link did not work for me.

 

[tom slick]

The clamps I've seen are Otiker clamps

 

[stumpypete]

Had the same issue with CV boot clamps working loose on my 3rd gen 4runner. Be sure to squeeze the boot and see if any water comes out.If so or if the grease looks like a gray milkshake you'll want to replace the axle grease. NAPA has little packets with the right grease in the right amount. I used McMaster-Carr online for their clamps. They are stainless steel with rolled edges so they don't cut the boot. They slip right around the axle and are screw clamps the are easily adjustable with just a screw driver. Squeeze the boot periodically as you tighten. If you hear air come out around the clamp turn the clamp a little tighter till you don't. Recheck in a week or and retighten if necessary.

 

[GreeCguy]

Originally Posted By: 40Deluxe
A nylon tie wrap works very good for this,have used them many times


Ditto

 

[SubLGT]

Originally Posted By: stumpypete
........I used McMaster-Carr online for their clamps. They are stainless steel with rolled edges so they don't cut the boot. They slip right around the axle and are screw clamps the are easily adjustable with just a screw driver............


I know the clamps you are referring to. Nice clamps. But they are too wide to fit in the clamp groove that is molded in the Subaru boot.

 

[SubLGT]

Originally Posted By: tom slick
The clamps I've seen are Otiker clamps


I am leaning towards the Oetiker clamps. I wonder how good they are are at retaining their tension? I did buy an Oetiker style clamp at NAPA, but compared to the ones pictured in the Amazon link, it is not of impressive quality, and I have decided to return it.

http://www.amazon.com/Oetiker-Style-Sing...ear+hose+clamps

 

[morris]

my boots have laces, not clamps. are clamps better? LOL

 

[CharBaby]

Originally Posted By: GreeCguy
Originally Posted By: 40Deluxe
A nylon tie wrap works very good for this,have used them many times


Ditto


Agreed!

 

[SubLGT]

I can see using a nylon tie wrap temporarily on an axle boot, but no way would I want to use it long term. Especially in the vicinity of a heat source.