Help:CV Axle Clunk

Edit: I mistakenly assumed it was the CV axles when and likely mislead those forum members attempting to offer assistance. See the attached video to gain a better insight into the clunking noise I am trying to resolve:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMFpQFXoAFI


Original post:
Recently picked up a new-to-me rust-free 2006 AC 4x4 with 200,000 miles.

This past weekend I flushed the power steering fluid and noticed an audible clunk noise when turning the steering wheel from full-lock-left to full-lock-right. Upon an inspection of the CV boots, I noticed that both inner boots have torn (see attached photos) likely due to the extra strain from a leveling kit.

2 observations of note:

• I do not hear a clicking sound when driving.
• The tear is at the bottom - so while grease is definitely long gone, I am hoping the location of the tear (as opposed to where the spring clip is) has minimized contamination.

I am hoping for input on which of the following options I should pursue. I should mention, that I am a poor Ph.D. student but appreciate there are certain times to spend (i.e. OEM LBJ).

1. Most expensive option: replaced both CV axles with an OEM part (nearly 500 each from McGeorge)

2. Least expensive option: Remove axles, repack with grease, and reboot with a high angle boot (Porche mod).

3. Intermediate expense: Replace the entire axle with an aftermarket piece e.g., Cardone

 

Even cheaper option, 3wd baby! I Would try to stay with genuine Toyota, or try to do number 2

 

rebooting, while a pain, is your best bet. give it a shot, or take a look at CVJ remanufactured CV axles. They come with high angle boots pre-installed.

 

If no 'clicking' while driving then the bearings are still OK, why replace them?

Replacing boots with OEM isn't difficult but it does help to have air tools for the tight nuts and a couple three hours. Unless you're planning lifting suspension, OEM is just fine, look how long they lasted.

 

The boot kit is the best option, but be warned that it is a greasy, messy job to the nth degree!

 

You'll only hear clicking from the CVs in 4wd while turning, so find a dirt/gravel road/parking lot and make a few 8s on there.

Also torn CVs won't clunk when turning left to right. Sounds like a loose tie rod end or steering rack.

 

Someone else mentioned the same thing - I will check steering rack bushings and tie rods. May be time to replace with polyurethane bushings.

 

seems many here break wood on their napa cv axels and say they are quality and cheap. the lifted cv axels have 8 ball innards for smooth operation even when not lifted. -J.P.

 

Thank you for steering me in the right direction: I am handy with motorcycles but new to trucks, clearly I am still learning. Please see the attached video for better insight into the noise. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMFpQFXoAFI

 

Did you try the tire shake test? Grab at 3 and 9 o'clock and try and wiggle them. Take a good look at your ends too. That's a new sound I haven't heard before.

 

Did this ever get figured out?