Q: How to Check the CV Boot on 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner?
A: One has to be mindful of the importance of the CV boots in that it prevents the entry of dirt, water or foreign materials that can damage the constant velocity joints (CV). Inspect them for tears and cracks, along with loose clamps. The CV boot should be checked for any sign of cracks and grease leaks. Any evidence of cracks or grease leaking means they must be replaced.
A: With the vehicle on the ground and the front wheels pointed straight ahead, rock the steering wheel gently back and forth to check for excessive freeplay. Excessive freeplay may indicate worn front wheel bearings, main shaft yoke, intermediate shaft yoke, lower arm balljoint, steering system joint, or an out of adjustment or broken steering gear. Other symptoms such as excessive vehicle body movement over rough roads, swaying around corners, and binding when turning the steering wheel may indicate faulty steering or suspension components. Check the shock absorbers by pushing down and releasing the vehicle at each corner. If the vehicle does not come back to a level position within one or two bounces, the shocks/struts are worn and need to be replaced. Listen for squeaks and noises from the suspension components while bouncing the vehicle. Raise the vehicle with a floor jack and support it securely on jackstands. Check the tires for irregular wear patterns and proper inflation. Inspect the universal joint between the steering shaft and the steering gear housing for any damage or lubricant leakage. Check the steering linkage, tie-rod ends, and all suspension and steering components for looseness, damage, loose bolts, broken or disconnected parts, and deteriorated rubber bushings. Check the steering components for free movement, chafing, and binding while an assistant turns the steering wheel from side to side. Check the balljoints by attempting to move each lower arm up and down with a prybar to ensure there is no play. Replace any balljoint with play. Inspect the balljoint boots for damage and leaking grease. Replace the balljoints if they are damaged. Lastly, inspect the CV boots for tears, cracks, and loose clamps. Replace any boots with evidence of cracks or leaking lubricant.
Q: How to Disassemble and Reassemble the CV Boot on a Toyota Highlander?
A: For disassembly, start by mounting the driveaxle in a vise with wood-lined jaws to prevent damage. Check the CV joint for play and smooth operation throughout its range of motion. If a boot is torn, carefully pry up the clamps' retaining tabs to loosen them and slide them off. Pry up the edge of the outer boot and push it away from the CV joint, then pull the inner CV joint boot back from the housing and slide the housing off the tripod. Mark the tripod and axleshaft for reassembly. Remove the tripod joint snap-ring, and using a hammer and brass punch, drive the tripod joint from the driveaxle. Cut off or remove both boots if necessary. Clean all components and inspect for wear. For reassembly, wrap the splines on the inner end of the axleshaft with tape to protect the boots, then slide the clamps and boot(s) onto the shaft. Place the tripod on the shaft, apply grease to the assembly and housing, insert the tripod, and pack grease around it. Slide the boot into place, adjust the driveaxle length, equalize boot pressure, and tighten the clamps. Finally, install the driveaxle assembly.