Time to fix the Leggy.

[JjSwee]

Problems: 1) CV boot is torn 2) Oil leak from the front, probably front crank seal.

1) Its torn all around and has been like this for a bit so I should replace the axle. My mechanic friend says I should replace both axles because I will need an alignment for just the one anyways, so just replace both. How much do these run?

2) Its the leak everyone seems to have. The front cover seal has opened up and oil is leaking. The undercarriage is oily and It smells from time to time. Whats the standard rate to get this fixed? Can I do it myself?

Thanks

[scottzg]

you won't need an alignment if you mark the position of the camber bolt before hand or you unbolt the lower control arm to get the axle out. Axles are easy, just be sure to pound out the pin with something with a flat end, NOT AN AWL! Awls lead to aggrivation.

Oil pump and crank seals suck A LOT to replace. you have to pull the timing belt and use a tool to remove the timing belt pulley. If you're determined to replace stuff under there, either just do the cam seals, or rebuild the whole front end- water pump, cam seals, crank seals, timing belt. If the timing belt is fresh, i'd just zip tie a shop rag under your front end to stop the smelling. Yes, you're getting advice from a hack-mechanic.

[JjSwee]

Thanks for the advice.

I think I will do the axles myself, but I will still get an alignment anyways. Its been a while since I got one. Happen to know the standard cost of an axle?

I dunno how important it is to get the seal fixed. I don't lose too much oil per change, but its just the fact that its losing oil that bothers me. (Especially since it is an interference engine).

[Wiscon_Mark]

Scott is right though: the leak isn't a big deal as far as oil loss goes, don't freak out about it.

It's very little extra work if you get it done when you have the timing belt & water pump done.

[galek_98gt]

the seal getting done at a shop will probably be from $300-$400. mine cost somewhere in that range about 2yrs ago.

[Plays_with_Toys]

For the seal, find out how much a timing belt job would cost and add $50. The part itself is like $6