Replace the outer CV boot on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 5.0L V8 RWD by removing the CV axle shaft, installing a new boot kit, and reinstalling the assembly with proper grease packing.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Outer CV boot kit with clamps and grease × 1 — Use OEM specification or equivalent quality aftermarket
• New axle nut × 1 — Use OEM specification
• CV joint grease (if not included in boot kit) × 1 — Moly-based CV grease

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Loosen wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground but do not remove
3. Raise vehicle and support securely on jack stands at manufacturer-approved lift points
4. Remove wheel completely
5. Place drain pan under work area to catch any residual differential fluid

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove staked axle nut
   Using a punch or chisel, carefully unstake the axle nut where it has been deformed into the axle shaft groove. Apply penetrating oil if needed. Use a 1/2 inch breaker bar and appropriate socket to remove the axle nut. This nut requires significant torque to remove and should not be reused.
2. 2

   Disconnect CV axle from differential
   Locate the inner CV joint bolts connecting the axle shaft to the differential flange. These are typically six bolts in a circular pattern. Remove all CV joint bolts and carefully note their position. Support the axle shaft to prevent it from falling.
3. 3

   Remove CV axle assembly
   Pull the outer end of the axle shaft out of the wheel hub. You may need to use a rubber mallet to tap the end of the shaft or use a hub puller if the shaft is stuck in the hub splines. Once free from the hub, carefully maneuver the entire axle shaft assembly out from under the vehicle. Place on a clean work surface.
4. 4

   Remove damaged outer CV boot
   Cut away the damaged outer CV boot clamps using clamp pliers or side cutters. Slide the old boot off the outer CV joint toward the inner joint. Wipe away old grease from the outer CV joint housing and shaft using shop rags. Inspect the CV joint for wear, pitting, or damage to the ball bearings and races.
5. 5

   Disassemble outer CV joint if necessary
   If the boot kit requires removal of the outer CV joint, use snap ring pliers to remove the internal snap ring securing the CV joint to the shaft. Mark the orientation of the joint to the shaft before removal. Tap the joint off the shaft using a soft-faced hammer if needed. Clean all components thoroughly with solvent and inspect for damage.
6. 6

   Install new CV boot onto shaft
   Slide the new outer CV boot clamps onto the axle shaft first, followed by the new boot itself. Position the small end of the boot on the shaft but do not clamp yet. Ensure the boot is not twisted and is properly oriented per the kit instructions.
7. 7

   Reassemble and pack CV joint
   If the CV joint was removed, reinstall it onto the shaft in the correct orientation and secure with the snap ring. Pack the CV joint housing with the full amount of grease provided in the boot kit (typically 3-4 ounces). Distribute grease evenly among all ball bearings and races. Position the large end of the boot over the CV joint housing.
8. 8

   Secure CV boot clamps
   Ensure both ends of the boot are seated properly in their grooves on the shaft and CV joint housing. Install and tighten the small clamp on the shaft end first using the CV boot clamp tool. Then install and tighten the large clamp on the CV joint housing end. Ensure clamps are tight and boot is not twisted or pinched.
9. 9

   Reinstall CV axle assembly
   Clean the wheel hub splines with a wire brush. Carefully position the CV axle shaft back into place, inserting the outer end into the wheel hub splines first. Align the inner CV joint with the differential flange. Push the outer shaft fully into the hub until seated.
10. 10

    Connect inner CV joint to differential
    Align the inner CV joint bolt holes with the differential flange. Install all CV joint bolts finger-tight first to ensure proper alignment. Torque all bolts to specification in a star pattern to ensure even loading.
    Torque spec

    CV Joint Bolts76 Nm (56 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Install new axle nut
    Thread the new axle nut onto the outer axle shaft. Torque the axle nut to specification. Stake the nut into the axle shaft groove using a punch and hammer, or install a new cotter pin if equipped. Ensure the nut cannot loosen.
    Torque spec

    Axle Nut250 Nm (184 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall wheel and lower vehicle
    Install the wheel and thread lug nuts by hand. Lower the vehicle until the tire just touches the ground to prevent wheel rotation. Torque lug nuts to specification in a star pattern. Fully lower the vehicle and remove jack stands.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts140 Nm (103 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all CV boot clamps are properly secured and the boot is not twisted
2. Verify the axle nut is properly staked or pinned to prevent loosening
3. Check for any differential fluid leaks at the inner CV joint connection

Verification

• Test drive the vehicle at low speed and verify no clicking, popping, or vibration from the CV axle
• Turn the steering wheel fully in both directions while driving slowly to verify proper CV joint operation
• Re-inspect the outer CV boot after 50-100 miles to ensure clamps remain secure and no grease is leaking
• Check axle nut staking or cotter pin after test drive to confirm it remains secure

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