Q: How to Replace CV Joint Boots and Reassembling the Driveaxle on Hyundai Sonata?
A: If the CV joint boots have to be replaced, one should think out of the box before proceeding since rebuilt driveaxles are available for exchange, making the process less tiresome and more efficient. Before the process of disassembly, one should know about the price of the spare parts and whether they are easily available or not. Certain auto parts stores have split type replacement boots, which can be fitted to the car without the need to remove the drive axle; however, removing the drive axle and cleaning the CV joint is recommended as it helps to prevent dirt wearing out the joint. It is not recommended to disassemble the outboard CV joints as all the outer joints are Birfield joints whereas the inner joints can differ. First, you need to detach the drive axle, and then hold it tightly, but without damaging it by putting wooden jaws to the vise. If the CV joint has too much play, or it doesn't rotate smoothly, replace it; if the boot is torn, remove it, clean it, and check for wear. Unscrew the clamps with a small screwdriver then remove the outer boot and pull the housing off the joint, identifying how the tripod and axleshaft are to be placed. Take out the snap ring Figure 11 in the tripod joint and using a hammer and a brass punch, knock off the tripod joint from the drive axle while observing the bearing surfaces. Heel all components completely with solvent while checking for wear; if the inner CV joint is worn it must be replaced; if the outer is worn, an entire new outer CV joint and axleshaft must be gotten. To reassemble, protect the splines on the axleshaft with tape, slide the clamps, and the boot onto the axleshaft and then fit the tripod or double offset joint with grease when required. Be sure that the boot is in the precise place, correct the length of the drive axle, compress the boot as much as possible, and fasten the clamps. Last but not the least, sometime after that, add the drive axle assembly.