Parts for your 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero-Cv joint

1988 Mitsubishi Pajero CV joint – relevance and service advice

CV joints are absolutely relevant to the 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero. Technical references including the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero Factory Service Manual for the first-generation L040/L044 series (1982–1991), Gregory’s Service and Repair Manual No. 516 (Pajero 1983–1996), and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue all specify independent front suspension with front drive shafts that use constant velocity joints (outer Rzeppa and inner tripod types). The rear is a live axle without CVs, but the front axle on 4WD models relies on CV joints, making this component a key part of the vehicle’s driveline.

On this classic Paj, the CV joint’s job is to transmit engine torque to the front wheels smoothly while they steer and move up and down over rough tracks. Outer CVs handle steering angles at the hubs, while inner tripod joints manage plunge as the suspension cycles. When the boots are intact and the grease is clean, they’re quiet, tight and happy—even when the hubs are locked and it’s chugging along a fire trail.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect both front CV boots each time the vehicle is up on a hoist. Any splits, grease fling on the control arms, or perished rubber means it’s time for a reboot before grit chews out the joint. If clicking is heard on full lock under acceleration, the outer CV is usually the culprit. Vibrations on throttle in 4WD often point at the inner joint. Daily-driven rigs can usually be rebooted and repacked if caught early, heavy off-roaders or high‑kilometre trucks may be better off with complete shaft replacements for long-term reliability.

• Keep manual free‑wheeling hubs unlocked in 2H to reduce CV wear and save a bit of fuel.
• Use the correct high‑moly CV grease and new clamps when rebooting.
• Torque the axle nut to spec and stake it, recheck after a few kilometres.
• After front-end work, check wheel alignment and hub seals.
• If water crossings are common, inspect boots and repack more frequently.

Look after the boots, listen for tell‑tale clicks, and this old-school front end will keep pulling the Pajero where it needs to go.

Popular questions about 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero CV joints

How can someone tell if a Pajero’s CV joint is failing?

Typical signs are clicking or popping on full steering lock when accelerating, grease sprayed around the inner guard from a split boot, and shudder or vibration under load in 4WD. Outer joints usually click on corners, inner joints more often cause straight-line vibration.

Can a split boot be fixed without replacing the whole shaft?

Yes—if caught early. Clean the joint thoroughly, inspect the bearings for pitting, then repack with the correct CV grease and fit a new boot and clamps. If there’s visible wear, rust staining, or it still clicks, a complete shaft is the better bet.

How often should Pajero CV boots be checked?

At every service or tyre rotation is a good habit. For vehicles that see beach work, mud or regular water crossings, check after each trip and consider more frequent repacks to keep grit and water at bay.