CV Shaft & Axle Seal Recommendations.....??

Following this thread to see how it turns out. Probably doing the exact same thing to my lifted 2013 very soon. After the ECGS upgrade, is it possible to go back to the OEM CVs if needed during a field repair? Supposed you break a CV on the trail, what is the plan? Some carry a spare CV or two. You might not have much choice of spare parts from the closest dealership or Autozone or Napa near your trail location. Nothing is wrong with my OEM CVs now, they have about 60k miles on them. If I upgrade withthe CVJ+ECGS , can I just drop the old CVs in if needed on the trails for a field repair ?

 

CVJ axles are going to be the same as the OEM, they're just rebuilt OEM axles. Only difference is the high angle red boot, and I've heard mixed reviews on those tearing prematurely and not guaranteed on lifted vehicles. If old CVs are OEM and fine, put them back in. Stretch inner boot if they're rubbing, but should be okay. CVJ will want your old OEM axles sent in for core of $125 too, so not really worth it if they're still good.

I'd keep a spare, but it doesn't have to be fancy. Parts store axles good as a spare, but can't beat the OEM boots for long term life.

 

If/when I order the CVJ, I do not plan to send back the cores.... just going to keep them as spares.

 

If your current axles are OEM and still good, then I would just put them back in

 

Update - I have all the parts required and several spare seals. I was hoping to have the job completed today but the mechanic's wife who was going to do the job tested positive for COVID and thus put him in quarantine till next weekend at the earliest. In the mean time, I've reading and watching YouTube videos about doing this repair/upgrade. If it wasn't so damn cold, wet and white I'd jump on doing this myself.

 

Good concise info here. Saving thread for when I replace CV shafts. My 4X4 is approaching 200K with 2.5 inch front lift. Everything else is OEM. No vibrations. When I replace CV shafts, thinking of this doing the ECGS bushing upgrade.

 

I just bought an OEM CV with 6k miles from LKQ for $85 shipped.

OEM for the seals would be my recommendation so you aren't doing it twice

 

LKQ?

 

LKQ Online. Auto dismanter/recycler

LKQ Online | New & Used Original Equipment Auto Parts

 

Finally was able to have everything done. ECGS bushing, seal, CVJ axle, inner hub seal, Lexus diff drain plug, new diff fill plug, and fresh Amsoil Severe Gear in the diff. Life is good. When the weather warms up the passenger side will get new seals and a new cv axle. I'll be doing the passenger side.....