there's a product you can purchase at most auto parts stores called a split boot. this eliminates the need to remove the cv joint from the vehicle.comes with instructions on how to apply..
It is cheaper to replace the CV shaft than it is to replace the boot. If the boot has been torn for any length of time it will have collected dirt and water. That in itself spells disaster.
Replace it.
BIG JOB Get a manual on your car from DISCOUNTAUTOREPAIRMANUALS.COM and it has pictures .
If you have the proper tools you can change it in about 1.5 hours or less.
A CV boot is found on the axle of a vehicle. To replace the outer boot remove the axle bolt and pull the boot off. The inner boot requires removal of the whole axle.
All CV shafts are held in by a retaining clip on the end of the inboard CV joint.
They make replacements that are split in half, but they aren't generally recommended. What's best (unfortunately) is to remove the shaft and replace it with a stock cv boot. If the cv boot has been open to the elements for a while, damage in the cv joint might have occured.
due to the age of the vehicle, i would recommend a new(or rebuilt) cv axle. if you are insistant on doing just the boot, cut the outer boot off. next, using a deadblow hammer, tap the outer joint off. of course it would be easier to take the axle out of the vehicle to do so.
you can get the cv boot kit that you can glue the join on rather than taking the drive shaft off
you cannot just change the boot you will have to replace the whole axle
20 minutes if you know what your doing. i just watched my buddy change my driver side shaft in my driveway in just under 20 minutes.
Changing CV boots is not cost effective. It is much simpler to simply swap in a rebuilt CV shaft.