Moving backwards.

Ok, earlier today I was driving along at 20-25mph and went over some train tracks by my place and I heard what sounded like a big washer hitting the ground and rolling off to the side. I slowed down immediately and pulled over to check it out but couldn't find whatever it was. About 20min. ago I went under the truck to look at the front sway bar links because I need new ones and I stumbled across this unholy mess!

It seems to be around the CV joint. Could I have blown a boot? It seems to be some type of grease with a green tint. Any input would be greatly appreciated before I have a freaking nervous breakdown!!!

 

Check the sling pattern to isolate it' origin, looks like a torn boot, but the clank noise might be a worn CV. Wiggle the CV, you have any play?

Also, strange looking grease, it's normally darker colored. Is that an old CV? Looks like so. Might be time for a change.

 

There's no clank noise. But yeah I didn't check my service history yet. I found a crack on top of the boot. I gave it a squeeze and could hear air coming from the crack. Have you ever used a split boot repair kit?

 

The grease turned white because it got wet? Have you been running in water? I would swap out the whole CV too. I know you are mechanically inclined enough to tackle it. I on the other hand would go over to the neighbors garage to do it.

 

The boot kits aren't too hard to do actually. I will say, there's one thing that is. If you slide the band off the back of the boot where it sits on the CV, you WILL NOT be able to slide it back on. You'll have to cut it and start over. I don't think i'm explaining this well, but it will not happen likely anyways.

There are also some stainless steel zip ties and a special tool you can buy at auto parts stores, and with a new boot you can use that to hold it in place if needed. The new boot kit should come with bands though.

Lastly, if the CV is good, and you didn't run it with the boot slinging too long, you could re grease and continue on, but if you see wear marks or play in the CV itself, might as well do it now.