Super n00b question: Are the rear axles as tetchy as the fronts? I have just discovered a fresh tear in a rear axle boot (while replacing the muffler), and I am wondering if I should just nut up and get new rears and be done with it?

Super n00b question: Are the rear axles as tetchy as the fronts? I have just discovered a fresh tear in a rear axle boot (while replacing the muffler), and I am wondering if I should just nut up and get new rears and be done with it?

 

If it's the inner joint, just reboot it.

A boot kit is usually only $10-15 and it takes just a little bit more work than

installing a new axle.

You have to remove the axle to reboot it usually, unless you enjoy lying under

a car disassembling and reassembling an axle.

 

This thread has a complete instruction guide on how to rebuild an axle.

Subaru Axles rarely fail unless severely tortured or subjected to extreme off

road punishment.

 

As for doing both, I would say only do both if the other boot seems brittle or

is starting to crack.

 

Twitch

Fantastic!

 

I swear I've searched and searched for these links.

 

Thanks Twitch

Also, a hint for getting those stubborn axles off, take a golf tee and wedge it

upside down in the roll pin hole, after you beat the roll pin out.

Then spray your favorite rust eater in the top side and let it sit for a while,

maybe even overnight if you feel it's necessary.

It should penetrate the splines of the axle and make the axle easier to pull off.

And if all else fails, you can take a torch and a bfh to the cup and make that

sucker come off.

 

Twitch

 

PS: Thanks to Monstaru for the golf tee idea