Well Just saw this as i was changing my oil. Should I just replace the boot or go about and replace the entire driveshaft. Also will I have to do an alignment after this is done?

 

I think you're a little confused.

That's the rack and pinion boot.
They're about $30 new from mazda.

Easy to replace with the right tools (read: puller for the steering arm ball joint). Be sure to mark the arm where you separate the jamnut with some paint.

PS: Our cars are rear wheel drive.

 

http://www.mazdatrix.com/hsteer2.htm

Boots are at the bottom.
The come with a new clamp... and a new twist-wire, if I'm not mistaken.

Make sure you use a puller on the tie rod end (where you have to remove the castellated nut and the pin). Do NOT use a hammer.

 

why not? I have used hammers plenty of times on ball joints...just use a deadblow and be careful not to hit the boot on the tie rod end and jizz all the grease out

 

Yeah, I think it's safer to just tell him not to use a hammer instead of him taking it to the tie rods by mistake...

 

scathcart, yes, our cars are rear wheel drive, however we do have constant velocity joints in the rear, driving the rear wheels.

 

^^ hense independant rear suspension.

 

Either way, what the OP posted was not a pic of a CV boot.

 

your car is rwd!!!!!

 

No kidding :Rolleyes:
But if you are looking under the front of the car and thinking you're finding CV joints, you must think the car is front wheel drive (or all wheel drive).


As for using a hammer: Can it be done? Sure. Can it **** up the threads? You bet. There's the right tool for the job, there's no reason not to use it. Most shops will loan you one for free. I would much rather simply do the job correctly.

 

agreed. we're definatly on the same page.