Outer CV Joint Question

[Timofej H. Crift]

You should try to replace the boot as soon as possible, but from my
experience, you can drive the car in this state for a short while.  I have
had many boots go in my cars, and I never really knew exactly when they
went, so I really do not have a reference as to how long one can drive
without changing the boot.  Just remember that you are not doing the CV
joint any favors, and road dirt can enter the joint and cause havoc.  Clean
the joint entirely before putting the new boot on to make sure there will
not be any dirt inside to grind away at the joint.  I have logged 100k's on
my joints without a problem.  I guess the short answer is clean the joint
and install the new boot ASAP.

Tim

-----Original Message-----
From: quattro-admin at audifans.com [mailto:quattro-admin at audifans.com]On
Behalf Of Mohammed Bhatti
Sent: Monday, April 15, 2002 9:22 AM
To: quattro at audifans.com
Subject: Outer CV Joint Question


Got a quick question regarding right front outer cv joint for my 88 80q.

I noticed the boot has a tear in it and the grease has all but disappeared.
I'm going to order a boot repair kit but wanted to know if I can continue to
drive the car until I get the kit in.  Also, what kind of damage do I face
driving the car in this condition.

Thanks

mkb
88 80q