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Hi,
I have never replaced an axle boot on my '68 Bug but the time has come, as one of them is ripped open.
Looks pretty straight forward, but I wanted to ask if there are any tips or tricks you could clue me in on that would make it easier? Also best to look for original or aftermarket parts for this job? Thanks!
some '68 beetles have swing axles and some had axles with 2 CV joints
which one do you have?
You can't really use original parts without tearing into the trans in this case, so you want a "split" replacement boot. (Originals were one piece, continuous all the way around). Don't waste your time with pretty coloured boots, get the ugly black boot...ugly is reliable...
Make sure the seam is either horizontal or at the top...don't overtighten the bolts...
It's a straightforward job, no real tricks needed.
Hi,
Hank, it's a swing axle. I hadn't realized that some '68s had cv joints. Thanks.
Der Bugmeister, thanks for the help! Really appreciated.
You can't really use original parts without tearing into the trans in this case, so you want a "split" replacement boot. (Originals were one piece, continuous all the way around). Don't waste your time with pretty coloured boots, get the ugly black boot...ugly is reliable...Make sure the seam is either horizontal or at the top...don't overtighten the bolts...
Most of this info is correct with 2 exceptions. 
1- Don't ever put the seam at the top, it will open up as the axle pivots. Install the seam at 10-11 or 1-2 O clock position.
2 Original one piece boots can be put on with out pulling the trans altho it is a PITA, I know several people who have done it that way. Would not recommend it for a driver just a trailer queen
68 was the first year for the auto stick trans with IRS and open axles with CV joints
Last edited by burrhead (2011-07-27 04:29:47)
Another tip is to raise the axle a bit so you can slip the bottom of the new boot in, and up against the trans. Be careful, you'll do fine..the part I hate the most is all the little nuts and screws...Good luck! Todd VW
I highly recommend that you put the boot on with the seam HORIZONTAL (not vertical). I have noticed by experience that if I put the seam vertical, that the boot does not last...and I end up replacing it much more frequently. The reason is clear. When the seam is on top, the boot cannot flex the way it is designed to (when the swing axle travels vertically) because of the thick seam being on top. Please consider placing the seam of the boot horizontally. It allows the boot to flex as designed.
Mo Lee
I have had good experience with EMPI's Deluxe Swing Axle Boots #9984. They're the accordion type and are pretty tough. I have torn other smooth rubber type boots by mis-installing them--by not allowing enough slack when the axles drop while the car is jacked up. After buttoning up the nuts and bolts, slide the outside ends toward the center to allow flex before tightening the axle band clamps.
Jack
Thanks a lot guys for the great replies. Found the Empi's and also some VW brand split boots. I'll pick one of these and do the job when they arrive.
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