[V8] Removal of front outer CV joints to replace boots.

[Gunter Lorberg]

I need to replace both front outer CV boots.  I've done this on many VWs, no problem.  I will have no problem getting the halfshafts out but I'm a little unclear on how the CV joints are mounted on the end of the shaft and how I'm supposed to remove them.  With the VWs, I have either had to remove a C-clip or just gently tap off the CV joint to overcome the resistance of the retaining clips.  
 
The boot kits came from an Audi dealer.  Is there something special about the long bolts that came in the kits with the 17mm hex socket?  I've read elsewhere in the archives something about using these bolts to force the CV joints off the shaft but I'm not sure about this.  I am assuming that, in the end when reassembling, I will be re-using the same 24mm bolts that are presently keeping it all together.  The kits also include new retaining clips just like on many VWs.
 
I know this topic has come up before but I still remain unclear on this one aspect of the job and ALLDATA DIY just doesn't make things any clearer.
 
The car is a 1990 with an automatic.
 
Any quick tips would be greatly appreciated before I tackle this messy job.
 
Thanks,
 
Gunter