2000 1.8 atw manual. Rotated the tires and saw the grease. Bought the driver's side outer boot kit at dealer - $40 bucks. Only broke the rear lower control arm loose (needed ball joint separator loaner at Advance) , turned steering to the right, and it came out with no problem. Took the joint off the shaft with the 'screw in the collar bolt' method. The boot was completely ripped, so I thought I'd better clean the old grease out for sure. Went to the garage shelf to see what chemicals I had. Engine degreaser first (several times), then brake cleaner, then MAF cleaner to 'dry' the solvents out before adding back the grease -just because I had that stuff, there is probably a better way, but it was shiny silver and dry when completed. Loaded with grease and away we go. Slight wrestling match to get the control arm back in. Had a helper this time which made it much easier.

 

sounds like you did it the smart way. good thing your CV joint isn't messed up.

 

I read a mechanic's opinion on here that the CV joint metal is so well forged (leave it to the Germans) that is it hard to tear up. I wonder if only a very few of them are really in need of replacement. My boot was completely in two pieces, but let me tell you there was PLENTY of grease still in the joint. could it have picked up some sand, maybe, but will sand or the fancy German metal win that battle? To replace the half shaft just because you are in there doesn't make sense to me. yes, I'm cheap - have to be.

 

haha so how long did this take u i haft to do he same exact repair!

 

If you have the tools and a friend, then a couple of hours. Ball Joint spreader loaner, BFH to hit it with, metric 16 or 17 mm wrench or deep socket for ball joint nut, 17 mm hex/allen for collar bolt (check yours, depends on year), hex/allen for brake caliper, 20 pack of rubber gloves, crimper pliers for the boot clamps (cheap at parts store), light to see with, extension cord for light, etc. I think the pros don't even take the brake assembly off, but they are on a lift. there is a good write up on here somewhere or at the vw site. good luck.