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Rotating axle boots

Posted: Tue Apr 17, 2012 6:47 am
by berger
Is it possible to rotate the axle boots on the axles? Lets say you have a hole/tear in the bottom of the axle boot and don't have a replacement handy, could you not rotate it up or to the back, just to get the hole away from any road spray or dust ingestion? I know it isn't a fix, just curious.

Re: Rotating axle boots

Posted: Tue Apr 17, 2012 7:14 am
by audiocontr
Duct tape. Gorilla tape to be exact, until you can order two replacements from expedition imports

Re: Rotating axle boots

Posted: Tue Apr 17, 2012 9:01 am
by undysworld
Red Green wrote:
Duct tape.
:shock:

The boots tend to get stuck to the metal surfaces, from my experience. I think even getting them to move would be tough.

But more importantly, if you rotated a tear to the "up" position, and then did get water and/or dirt in there, I think your problem would be worse.

In short, I'd say NO. That's why they sell split-boot replacements, so you can make a field repair.

Re: Rotating axle boots

Posted: Tue Apr 17, 2012 9:13 am
by berger
undysworld wrote: But more importantly, if you rotated a tear to the "up" position, and then did get water and/or dirt in there, I think your problem would be worse.
Ya, I was thinking that too, that is why I thought to the rear, so at least the tear is above submersion level. I do have a split boot, but they can be pricey to carry a couple spares around all the time....Yes, I know that axle repair is more expensive, but if I had a really bad tear, I wouldn't drive the truck till I fixed it. I am just thinking of those times when you don't have everything on hand and need a quick fix.

Re: Rotating axle boots

Posted: Tue Apr 17, 2012 9:21 am
by audiocontr
I'm serious on the duct tape.

While on the road, i noticed that i had splits in the boots and I was heading to a sandy location. I cleaned the boots best i could and attached the tape to cover up the holes. The tape worked well at keeping the dust and sand out of the hole and when i returned, i ordered replacements (and extras). They are designed as dust covers.

Cracking boots should be expected on these trucks, and as such, you should always have quality spares.

Re: Rotating axle boots

Posted: Tue Apr 17, 2012 1:19 pm
by berger
audiocontr wrote:I'm serious on the duct tape.
Bought some this afternoon! :)