I need your guidance , I discovered a torn outer driverside axel boot. The local shop I use estimated $450.00 for the job, replacing both outer and inner boots, the replacement part is around $70-100, rest labor. I've had success doing this on a honda in college, but does the 4matic play a part in making this job more difficult as a DYI? Or is this job ugly enough to pay the price and continue enjoying my wagon? Thanks for reading and I appreciate any input. Thanks, John

 

The front Axle R/R on a 4matic is Not a easy job
parts 70/100EA? or for a pair inner/outer? Plus Grease and clamps?
For BOTH Axles its a fair price

 

Iīve replaced tons of those and itīs not extremely hard, but takes a bit of time. And it is perfectly reasonable to replace both inner and outer cv boots while you are at it, since they often fail at the same time.
You need to undo the ball joint, sway bar and shock-to-control arm bolt in order to lower the control arm, so you can remove the complete axle and work on it on the bench.
( although the outer cv can sometimes be knocked loose from the axle in place.. but not always )

In order to do that, you must slightly loosen the inner bushings of the control arm, so you can lower it down on the outide. Once that is done, knock the inner cv free from its splines and remove the axle, bending it down under the shock.
Then place the axle in a vice and knock the outer cv free from its axle with a suitable mallet, striking the middle piece of the cv where it protrudes outwards. The rest is self explanatory.. replacing the boots, the shims and the clamps.

-Once the job is finished, you musnīt tighten the inner control arm bushings and the shock-to-control arm bolt unless the car is standing level, so the bushings are resting in their centre position.. If you know what I mean..

Cheers,

 

i think there is a diy video on youtube. might not be in english though.