'96 OBW, 188k, 2.2L, 5spd

 

I'm getting ready to do the clutch in my wagon and I'm thinking about some preventative maintenance. My boots aren't split yet but when I did my brakes a few weeks ago, they looked to me like they are starting to crack.

 

I don't know how old they are. I got the car with 120k on it and minimal service records none of which mentioned axles so they have at least 68k and 3 years on them and possibly as much as 188k and 12 years.

 

given the relative PIA nature of axles (for those of us with no paved surface to work on and who don't do axles all the time) I was thinking about repacking the axle grease and putting on new boots. I looked into boots from the dealer and it'll run about 65 per side before tax and shipping which puts the cost right around what an MWE axles costs.

 

So my questions is, assuming my axles are fine with the exception of aging boots, would they last as long as they did the first time with no more attention then a cleaning/repack/reboot? Or should I just drop some extra bucks on axles and have done with it?

 

Money is tight as always, but this is my main transportation and I have to make special arrangements to do major stuff like this so I'm willing to throw a bit more in to save some headache and downtime later on.

 

Opinions please, Thanks!

 

Will-

will

 

assuming they're the stock axles, i'd keep them. subaru axles are awesome, aftermarket axles are junk.

 

i'm a big MWE fan, but if there's no noise and hasn't been for 68k, i see no reason to replace them. they should last awhile.

 

the boots i've gotten at advanced auto parts seem very decent and are probably a bit cheaper than subaru. i can't recall which brand i've gotten, but so far i will continue to use those.

 

if the newer style (2000-ish) axle boots are the same size (i think they might be), then get those, they are higher quality and have more convolutions.

 

i'm a big MWE fan...

 

 

 

You and me both.

My wagon with slightly more miles than yours still has its original axles.

Thanks for the replies everyone, that's great info.

 

Gary, thanks for the tip on the 2000+ MY boots, I'll definitely check them out.

 

Couple more questions. I recall reading someplace that a special tool is sometimes required to put the clamps on the boots. Do you remember if those Autozone boots are that style and if so what the tool looks like?

 

Also, I haven't read up on the instructions for boot replacement yet, but I'm assuming I'll be doing it by removing the DOJ. Do I need a press for either removal or install?

 

Thanks again!

 

Will-

it might be 2002, i'm not sure when they changed the boot style.

 

you don't need a press. just patience and a willingness to do a very messy job. that's why i don't do it, too messy. yes they require a boot clamp tool, but since i don't do them myself i can't tell you any more than that. some people just use a regular screw type clamps and even some have used zip ties!

 

if i were doing it myself i'd probably go with regular screw style clamps. particularly if you don't do many of them, those tools are annoying, get greasy and are hard to get just right. my buddy messed with one multiple times for a year, had the special tool, tore his boot in the process, called me a few times, and ended up just using a regular hose clamp. lasted until he got rid of the car last year (when i got him a subaru!).

Thanks Gary, I think I've got some smooth band clamps around here someplace at the shop that should fit so I'll just use those.

 

Yeah, I'm not looking forward to the grease, I've done this with ATV axles, but it needs to be done so I'll just be thankful axle grease doesn't smell as bad as hypoid gear oil!

 

Will-

ironically will, i just happened to across an axle boot receipt today when i was cleaning up at home and thought about you...oh how cute, huh!?!? i bought a 2001 boot for a 1995 legacy axle.....hmmm...what year axle was it though...anyway, it was $7.88 from Advanced auto parts. seemed very nice quality, but it didn't note the manufacturer/brand on the receipt. if the other side is roughly the same price then maybe you're looking at less than $20 a side.

Awwww, so sweet!

 

That's awesome Gary, thanks for posting that info. Eight bucks a boot sounds mighty fine to me. If they have a few brands, I"ll have them pull one of each and pick the thickest, most convoluted one I can find.

 

 

assuming they're the stock axles, i'd keep them.

 

How can I tell if they're stock? Will they have a sticker or something that will help me identify?

 

And, thanks again!

 

BTW, on a total side note. That's some amazing country you've got out there in WV. I did some camping/hiking/climbing in Monengahelia (spelling?), Dolly Sods, Seneca Rocks area. Fantastic. Being used to the expanse of the Sierra's, it was great to find a place that wasn't all trailers and school kids.

If you have a tile nipper, just put a few layers of masking tape over the sharp edge and then it will work for the clamps.

 

I'm in aviation, so I also have used safety wire instead of the clamps. 90 degree bend on one end and then wrap it the wire around the boot 8 times or so, going on top of the wire you bent to 90. Pull tight and twist the ends.

 

I never had one fail or grease leak out.

yeah just double check those 2001+ boots and make sure they're the same size as a 1996.

 

yeah WV is different, very mountainous for sure. smaller yes, but still very steep, treacherous roads with switch backs, insanely steep, and unmaintained in the winter = snow covered for 30 days straight if the temps stay low. i like all the animals and space, excited about raising our kids out here if we can find some way to educate them!!!

Awwww, so sweet!

How can I tell if they're stock? Will they have a sticker or something that will help me identify?

 

NTN supplies Subaru OEM half shafts. You'll find it stamped on the inboard joint. On my 99 Forester, the inboard joint is powdercoated green, but I don't believe this is the case for earlier models.

 

In any event, if they're aftermarket half shafts and have made this far without any unusual noise or vibration, it's a safe bet to pre-emptively replace the boots.

i like all the animals and space, excited about raising our kids out here if we can find some way to educate them!!!

 

Haha, nothing wrong with good ol' home schoolin'

 

NTN supplies Subaru OEM half shafts. You'll find it stamped on the inboard joint.

 

Great, thanks. I'll take a look.

 

 

I'm in aviation, so I also have used safety wire instead of the clamps. 90 degree bend on one end and then wrap it the wire around the boot 8 times or so, going on top of the wire you bent to 90. Pull tight and twist the ends.

 

Thanks for the tips!

 

Will-