ML W163 cv boot

It is recommended to replace the dust boots of the inner and outer CV joints on the MERCEDES-BENZ M-Class (W163) car by a kit for each drive shaft. The parts have approximately the same lifetime limit. If only one of the dust boots is replaced, soon there will arise a necessity for replacement of the other one. And for this you will need to demount the drive shaft, removal of which is a quite laborious process.

During replacement of the dust boots, in some cases it is necessary to drain oil from the gearbox casing and the final drive. That is why it is better to combine installation of new seals with the gearbox flushing and oil replacement. The gearbox is cleaned with the help of a special station which is connected to the connecting pipes of the transmission cooling system. Also it is recommended to install a new filter and replace the gearbox oil pan gasket. Specialists of a service station will see in the vehicle technical documentation, whether these procedures on the MERCEDES-BENZ M-Class (W163) car are necessary to be done.

It is not necessary to disassemble the CV joint for dust boot demounting. The old part is demounted by being cut with scissors, and a new one is installed with the help of a special pneumatic tool. Usually, this method of installation is used for mounting the components made of silicone or neoprene.

The fastening clamps should be replaced together with the dust boots in the mandatory manner, so as to provide as reliable fastening of the components as possible. During clamps tightening, you need to equalize pressure inside the protective cover.

If the CV joint is disassembled during replacement of the dust boots, its elements should be thoroughly cleaned, de-oiled and abundantly greased with a greasing product recommended by the manufacturer.

Align the wheels of the MERCEDES-BENZ M-Class (W163) car if necessary. The wheels misalignment leads to steerability worsening, premature wear-out of tyres, and other negative consequences.

Start the engine, and, after turning the steering wheel to the full, smoothly start off. If you hear crackling or screeching during this, the CV joint should be replaced.

In about a week after replacement, inspect the dust boots, and check tightness of their fastening to the drive shaft and outer race of the CV joint. Tighten the clamps if necessary.