after doing a little looking through the threads, didn't come up with anything, maybe no one has had the problem i have. i have a 99 ranger 4x4, crappy PVH system, so i did the "fix" by locking them full time. didn't have a problem with it, 4x worked fine. on to the problem...a couple weeks ago i got stuck pretty good while trying to get to someone stuck already. got my truck pulled out, everything was good to go. not until yesterday did i notice that there was some fluid on the inside of my passenger side wheel well, upon further inspection i found a couple small holes in the outer CV boot. with the hub still locked i rotated the wheel, axel still turned like it should. so i don't think the CV joint is bad. the question is...will i be able to change just the boot or should i just go ahead and change the whole CV joint.


i hope i explained this right and no one has a problem understanding the question.

 

DON'T let the ripped boot go too long otherwise you WILL have to replace the CV joint also !!! Too much fluid will leak out and possible debris will get in.
To replace the CV boot you will have to disassemble the axle.
Unless you are mechanically inclined and have the Factory Service Manual.... I wouldnt attempt the repair.
On standard U Joint axle and hubs...; this repair is rather involved....

OR 4x4

 

there are several companies that make aftermarket boots, for situationslike this

it's suggested to go ahead and swap axles whenever the boot breaks...but four our trucks i'm guessing thats hella expensive...

www.raxles.com i think has some info maybe...or try google for just the boots...

 

thanks guys, i've already unlocked the hubs so that the axle isn't spinning therefore isn't slinging as much grease out of the holes. i'm pretty mechanically inclined and my dad is a pro, so i guess i'll just buy a new boot and put er on there. thanks again guys.

 

something like this...

 

not quite that bad, just a small hole and about a 1/4 inch tear about and inch from the outer edge.