I found a large slice in my Outside CV boot on my front axle of the Auto Cat today. Not sure how long it's been that way. Anyone had to fix their's that want to share some helpful tips. Dealer says i can regrease, replace the boot and hope for the best or they will sell me a new axle shaft for $250..... Hmmm Hopefully the bearings aren't shot.Though I ain't holding my breath.
Mike

 

i have an 89 suzuki lt2504wd, i have been through probably 15 cv boots in its life, i still have my original cv shafts and they show hardly any wear, they seem to hold up forever even if the boots are torn and they are submerged in mud and water. good luck on changing the boots, they are pretty easy to do.

 

DO NOT BUY A WHOLE NEW AXLE !! Thats just a waste of money !! Just buy a new boot and figure out how to put it on. I forget how my Dad and I would put them on our old Suzuki 300 4x4 but we NEVER bought a new axle.

 

Assuming that the 500i is similar to other 4wheelers, it's not that hard to do.
The worst thing about the outer boot being torn is that you have to take apart the inner one to change it.
But don't replace the whole shaft unless it's obviously worn.