Date: Tue, 18 Apr 2017 16:43:50 -0700
Reply-To: Stuart MacMillan <stuartmacm@GMAIL.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Stuart MacMillan <stuartmacm@GMAIL.COM>
Subject: Re: CV Maintenance - Re-use old or new Rockford USA boots?
In-Reply-To: <CY1PR20MB00291E86737F930D1D12719EA0190@CY1PR20MB0029.namprd20.prod.outlook.com>
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I'm looking for used OEM boots just to have a supply.
These boots flex a bazillion times every few thousand miles, and if the rubber is thin or poor quality they will split sooner rather than later from the constant flexing. I've even seen these made of vinyl, which is a very bad idea. There is simply no incentive for aftermarket suppliers to make these to OEM specifications because they would be $100+ each if they did, and we all know we are too frugal (i.e., cheap) to pay that.
The OEM boots can last an extremely long time partly because they are not exposed to sunlight or high temps. EPDM rubber is also the best rubber you can make and it can obviously flex at least a gazillion bazillion times (1 times 10 to the 240th power, at least): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EPDM_rubber Sorry, it's the chemist in me coming out again ;-).
Also, the cooling system hoses on our Vanagons are also made from EPDM rubber. That's why many of us are still running with them, and will for a lot longer.
Stuart
-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Dennis Haynes
Sent: Tuesday, April 18, 2017 3:55 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: CV Maintenance - Re-use old or new Rockford USA boots?
While it goes against my grain I agree. I did just have van come in with Rockford boot that failed. Maybe they are "too" heavy duty. Could be something got to it and tore it up also. Don’t know! But it seems that with the current boots available after you replace 15 year old ones you get to check them at each oil change afterwards. Same even goes for the CV joints also.
Dennis
-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Robert Clemmer
Sent: Tuesday, April 18, 2017 2:23 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: FW: CV Maintenance - Re-use old or new Rockford USA boots?
In my humble opinion, you are better off using the originals if there is no sign of dry rot. I just changed the first boot on my 91 tintop after 322k miles.
Bob C
-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Steve Williams
Sent: Tuesday, April 18, 2017 12:27 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: CV Maintenance - Re-use old or new Rockford USA boots?
Hi,
I am going to clean and lube the CV joints on my 2wd 1991 Westy.
I've heard all sorts of horror stories about poor quality new CV boots wearing out prematurely.
My initial plan was to leave the original CV boots on, as they seem to be in good shape. I have no idea about how old they are, at least 10
years/50,000 km (as long as I've owned the van).
I'm getting some parts and the supplier has indicated they sell the Rockford USA CV boots.
Is it advisable to replace the boots? I didn't think so at first, but now I'm wondering...
Thanks,
Steve Williams
