Parts for your 1986 Mitsubishi Pajero-Cv boots

1986 Mitsubishi Pajero CV boots — what they do and when to replace them

Technical references confirm that CV boots are absolutely relevant to the 1986 Mitsubishi Pajero. The factory service manual for the first‑generation Pajero/Montero (L040/L140, 1983–1991) specifies independent front suspension with constant velocity (CV) front drive shafts, each protected by rubber boots at the inner and outer joints. The Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue lists front driveshaft boot kits for these models, and the Haynes repair manual covering 1983–1991 Pajero/Montero details routine inspection of the front CV joint boots on IFS vehicles. The rear of this Pajero uses a live axle without CV boots, but the front end definitely does.

On a 1986 Pajero, the CV boots keep special moly grease inside the joints and mud, sand, and water out. That matters heaps for Aussie and Kiwi conditions where corrugations, beach runs, and creek crossings are part of the fun. Each front shaft has two boots (inner and outer), and even with manual locking hubs, the boots still flex with suspension movement, so they cop plenty of action.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to check the CV boots every oil change or roughly every 5,000–10,000 km. After muddy trips or water crossings, a quick look under the front guards is cheap insurance. What to look for:

• Grease fling on the inside of the rim, brakes, or lower arms
• Cracks, splits, or perished rubber, especially near the pleats and clamps
• Loose or missing clamps
• Clicking on full lock or vibration under load (often a sign the joint has already worn)

If a boot is torn but the joint is still quiet and free of play, a boot‑only replacement with fresh molybdenum CV grease and new clamps usually does the trick. If there’s clicking, binding, gritty feel, or metal flake in the old grease, the joint or the complete shaft is likely due. Many owners opt for a full shaft because it can be cost‑effective versus labour to strip, clean, and rebuild.

When fitting new boots, use quality rubber or TPE boots, pack the specified amount of CV grease, and crimp clamps firmly so they don’t weep. After lifts or torsion bar tweaks, keep an eye on boot angle—steeper angles can accelerate wear. Don’t drive long with a split boot, a few dusty kilometres can turn a serviceable joint into an expensive replacement.

Genuine or reputable aftermarket kits are recommended, and if driveway spanner work isn’t your thing, a specialist 4x4 workshop can sort it promptly.

FAQs

Does a 1986 Mitsubishi Pajero have CV boots?
Yes. The first‑gen Pajero runs independent front suspension with CV drive shafts, each using inner and outer rubber boots. The rear axle doesn’t use CV boots.

How often should CV boots be replaced on a 1986 Pajero?
There’s no fixed interval, they’re replaced on condition. Inspect at every service and after mud or water. Replace immediately if cracked, leaking, or torn to protect the CV joint.

Should they replace just the boot or the whole shaft?
If the joint is quiet and tight, a boot‑only job with fresh grease is fine. If there’s clicking on turns, vibration, or rusty/contaminated grease, replacing or rebuilding the shaft is the better call.