Busted CV Axles Dangerous?

I didn't see a thread on this topic, so let me know if I missed it. I replaced my suspension and the guy tore my CV boots, exposing the CV joint. A few mechanics basically said not to replace them or repack them until you need to since they are the original CV axles with over 170k miles on them...and there is no danger of mechanical failure that could cause me or my truck harm. They said at some point you will hear some grinding and know you need to replace them.

My questions to you guys:
-Can the CV axles seize up and be a danger to me while driving? How serious?
-If I replace them, should I go cheap or something like this: https://www.cvjreman.com/product-tag/9808/

 

First of all, as you might know the OEMs even with 170k miles are still worth good money. Don't let anyone talk you out of them, unless you decide to go with the CVJs. The general consensus is they are the most durable, which is why the performance rebuilt ones like CVJ insist on OEM cores. Have never heard of it being dangerous to let them go for awhile. The noise and vibrations they will make would probably drive you crazy before they have a catastrophic failure. But, I would plan on replacement sooner than later. You will have grease everywhere under there if you let them go for even a little while.

You can reboot to save money, which is a great option if yours are still in good shape, but it's pretty labor intensive. You could see if there are any Toyota groups (fb, IG, or on here) in your area that may have a line on someone that could do it for a reasonable price. Sometimes generous members will do the work for Pizza and Beer, just because they love Toyotas lol.

I have had 50/50 luck with aftermarkets, Carquest brand had vibration, and Napa was a tad too long and was binding. There are plenty of people who have had good results with aftermarket though. Toyota dealers have a good reman (mine has 15k miles with no issues) for around $150, but they were back ordered in a lot of areas around the country recently. They will most likely go up in price too. Could be a result of the trade war.

I just repaired a small tear in one of my boots with a bicycle patch, but yours sound too damaged for that. Good Luck!!

 

I just did some wheeling in mine with a torn boot (very minimal) but looks like I might have done some damage. I get a nice clicking sound while turning and will be checking them tonight to see the damage. I personally don’t think it’s too complicated of a process to replace to boots. The OEM kit from the dealer has both inner and outer boot, the clamps and grease I paid around $46. The most difficult part IMO is removing from the differential, I’d recommend if doing yourself, invest in a hand hammer which should shorten the work to about 45 minutes. My buddies 04 Tacoma had some frankenaxles made with different components and he wheeled the hell out of it. I’ve been driving with a boot with no issues but remember, it’s a chance game your playing!! Best of luck!

 

This was really helpful!! Thank you.

 

Depending where you are, you could also have them professionally rebuilt. Most folks recommend not getting rid of your originals, and just having them rebuilt. Dont trade them for crappy aftermarket ones. CJV in Denver, CO and Axles Unlimited in Charlotte do incredible work. Had mine done at AU and they do all the work as well, removal, rebuild and install. For less than 1/3 price of dealership.