1. Gather Tools and Parts:
- Replacement CV boots (2)
- CV joint grease
- Flat-blade screwdriver
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Pliers
- Socket set
- Jack and jack stands
- Safety goggles
- Clean rag
2. Prepare the Vehicle:
- Park your Mazda 323 on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
- Chock the wheels behind the front tires to prevent the car from rolling while working.
- Engage the gearshift into the "Park" position.
3. Raise the Vehicle:
- Use the jack to safely lift the front end of the car until the affected wheel is off the ground.
- Securely place jack stands under the designated lift points to support the vehicle.
4. Remove the Wheel:
- Use the appropriate socket to loosen and remove the lug nuts securing the affected wheel.
- Take off the wheel and set it aside.
5. Remove the Brake Caliper:
- Locate the brake caliper and identify its mounting bolts.
- Use the socket to unbolt and remove the brake caliper.
- Hang the caliper from the suspension using a piece of wire to prevent it from straining the brake line.
6. Remove the Driveshaft:
- Locate the CV joint area on the driveshaft, where the CV boot is located.
- Depending on your model, there may be bolts securing the driveshaft to the wheel hub. Remove these bolts.
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver to pry off the retaining clip (if present) that holds the driveshaft to the wheel hub.
- Now, gently pull the driveshaft outward until the CV joint comes out of the wheel hub.
7. Remove the Old CV Boot:
- Use the flat-blade screwdriver to carefully pry off the clamps securing the old CV boot to the driveshaft.
- Slide off the damaged boot and remove the grease from the joint.
8. Clean and Inspect the Joint:
- Thoroughly clean the CV joint using the clean rag to remove old grease and dirt.
- Inspect the joint for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. If any issues are found, you may need to replace the CV joint itself.
9. Install the New CV Boot:
- Slide the replacement CV boot onto the cleaned joint, making sure it's properly seated.
- Secure the new CV boot using the provided clamps or ties.
- Fill the boot with the recommended amount of CV joint grease.
9. Reattach the Driveshaft:
- Carefully reinsert the driveshaft into the wheel hub until the CV joint seats securely.
- Reinstall any bolts or retaining clips that were removed earlier.
10. Reattach the Brake Caliper:
- Lift the caliper back into its original position and secure it with the mounting bolts.
- Check that the brake line is not pinched or damaged during the process.
11. Replace the Wheel:
- Reinstall the wheel and securely tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the vehicle carefully using the jack and remove the jack stands.
12. Road Test:
- Once everything is back in place, test drive the vehicle at low speeds to ensure that there are no unusual vibrations or noises.
- If everything seems normal, you've successfully replaced the axle CV boot on your 1994 Mazda 323.
Note: If you are unsure about any of these steps or the extent of the damage to the CV joint and boot, it's recommended to consult a qualified mechanic for proper assessment and repair.
