CV boot looks like it’s leaking at the clamp area

[jalikaria24]

In my 2003 hummer h2 (same front end as 2500), it seems like my one CV is leaking at the boot where the clamp is. It doesn’t look like much and it looks like the boot is full. I’m on the road rn so I’m wondering if I have to pull over soon and get it fixed or should it last a few 1000 km until I’m back home and can fix it In a week?

also what area my options? Do I have to replace the whole CV or the boot? The truck has 250k on it

thx

 

[mk378]

That can go for a very long time.

Are you sure it's not just grease dropped on the outside from working on the ball joint?

 

[Nukeman7]

It will last a long time before it leaks significantly. You can carefully cut/pry off the old clamp and inspect the boot to see if the rubber under the clamping surface is actually cracked. If it is not deteriorated, you can simply get a replacement clamp and reinstall it. I used this kit from Amazon:

CV Boot Clamps

You may also need nipper pliers like these inexpensive ones from Harbor Freight to crimp the clamp:

H F Nippers

 

[Kawiguy454]

What I would do is clean up the outside as good as I can and get a tube of oil proof goop from AZ and coat it for a seal. I think you'll make it home for repair ok. If you go thru the work to replace the boot that may be a good time to replace a CV with a lot of mileage on it.

 

[The Critic]

Pull the axle and reboot. This is the perfect candidate for a reboot since the boot has not split open yet.

 

[slacktide_bitog]

You can probably reboot it, but it's easier to just replace the whole axle. You're lucky that GM still sells OE NEW axles non-reman

Reman axles usually have inferior neoprene boots and poorly done "rebuilds"

 

[The Critic]

You can probably reboot it, but it's easier to just replace the whole axle. You're lucky that GM still sells OE NEW axles non-reman

Reman axles usually have inferior neoprene boots and poorly done "rebuilds"

$395 for a new one vs $60 for a boot kit.

 

[jalikaria24]

Thanks so much for the replies!
I have about 1500 km left until I’m home. As long as I can make it home I’m happy. I think when I do repair it I’ll just replace the CV. I’ve had bad luck and since the labour will be similar might as well replaced the axel.

was wondering on tips and what else I could also do to support it or help it so it doesn’t leak more

 

[WyrTwister]

With 250k on the truck , were it mine , I would do nothing at this point , other than to continue to observe it , periodically .

 

[jalikaria24]

With 250k on the truck , were it mine , I would do nothing at this point , other than to continue to observe it , periodically .

Sounds good thanks so much!
How do I ensure the cv didn’t loose a lot of grease? Looks full to me tho

 

[slacktide_bitog]

Sounds good thanks so much!
How do I ensure the cv didn’t loose a lot of grease? Looks full to me tho

as long as you don't hear any popping when you turn

 

[jalikaria24]

as long as you don't hear any popping when you turn

nah its been silent. i literally got a wheel hub installed last weke and didnt notice anything and ive been paying extra attention to road noises lately and no noises from front end when turning or anything.
i am just really hoping it will last me till im back home aha

 

[Wolf359]

I would do what was advised earlier. Get the boot clamp, pliers and some grease and just reclamp. You don't need to take the axle out to do it. Cheapest way out, just pack it with some grease, put the new clamp on, use the pliers to clamp it on and you're good. You could seal the boot for now with duct tape til you get home.

 

[mk378]

Do the CV axles even turn in 4x2 mode?

 

[jalikaria24]

Do the CV axles even turn in 4x2 mode?

my truck is a perm 4x4 so there always turning

 

[Nick1994]

Definitely reboot, reman axles are trash.

It can probably wait until you get back home.

 

[clinebarger]

I would do what was advised earlier. Get the boot clamp, pliers and some grease and just reclamp. You don't need to take the axle out to do it. Cheapest way out, just pack it with some grease, put the new clamp on, use the pliers to clamp it on and you're good. You could seal the boot for now with duct tape til you get home.

The boot has a hole/tear in it somewhere, Replacing the clamp will do no good.

 

[clinebarger]

my truck is a perm 4x4 so there always turning

It will turn regardless as it's splined into the wheel bearing hub.

 

[WyrTwister]

as long as you don't hear any popping when you turn

Pretty much what I was thinking .