Best way to Bandaid a torn lower ball joint cover?

OmgAwd · 10-31-2008

I need a temporary fix. It's not bad, maybe an 1/8th of an inch long but If it is driven this winter it will get worse eventually.

Matt D. · 10-31-2008

Wrap it with duct tape! Kind of hard to repair a rubber boot that is covered in grease and grime.

SnoEclipse · 10-31-2008

or go get a tire tube repair kit at the local bike store.

Clean the boot really well and get the patch put on. Make the patch as big as you can without interfering with the flex of the boot.

Let the patch cure for at least 24 hours. I know that instructions will probably say 15-60 minutes, but that's for a bike tire. Your ball joint boots will be taking a tad more flex than a bike tire so you want the cement to have a good chance at making a good bond.

Now go out and abuse your car and check the patch when you get home. If it held up, you'll probably be good to go for the whole winter. But keep an eye on the boot just the same to make sure it doesn't open up again and let the winter road chemicals get to the ball joint.

b00stcreep21 · 10-31-2008

Or just replace it....

niterydr · 10-31-2008

I vote replace it.

OmgAwd · 10-31-2008

I said it was temporary guys. Of course i will replace it.

OmgAwd · 10-31-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by SnoEclipse

or go get a tire tube repair kit at the local bike store.

Clean the boot really well and get the patch put on. Make the patch as big as you can without interfering with the flex of the boot.

Let the patch cure for at least 24 hours. I know that instructions will probably say 15-60 minutes, but that's for a bike tire. Your ball joint boots will be taking a tad more flex than a bike tire so you want the cement to have a good chance at making a good bond.

Now go out and abuse your car and check the patch when you get home. If it held up, you'll probably be good to go for the whole winter. But keep an eye on the boot just the same to make sure it doesn't open up again and let the winter road chemicals get to the ball joint.

That sounds pretty good. I think I have a few laying around.

Febo · 10-31-2008

Silicone adhesive, pull it off, parts clean it, silicone adhesive, put it back on, and your good. Its what I did on mine. they are still holding

OmgAwd · 10-31-2008

I heard about that but where can I find some?