Parts for your 1998 Nissan Navara-Cv boots

1998 Nissan Navara CV boots: what they are, and when they matter

Based on factory sources like the Nissan Navara D22 Series Service Manual (1997–2001) and common parts catalogues for the D22 platform, CV boots are fitted to 4WD (front-drive) variants of the 1998 Navara because they use front driveshafts with constant velocity joints. The same sources show that 2WD utes of this year run a rear-wheel-drive layout with a propeller shaft and universal joints, and no front driveshafts — so there are no front CV boots on 2WD models. Rear axles on both 2WD and 4WD D22s are live axles without CV joints.

For 4WD 1998 Navara owners, CV boots do a deceptively big job. They’re flexible rubber sleeves that seal high-moly grease around the CV joints on the front driveshafts, keeping water, sand and grit out while the joint articulates over bumps and during steering. When a boot cracks or splits, grease is flung onto the inner rim and suspension, and the joint can run dry — that’s when clicking on lock, shudder under load, and costly joint wear show up.

As part of regular servicing, a quick visual once-over pays off. Look for:

• Grease mist or splatter on the inside of the wheel or lower control arm
• Cracks in the rubber, especially around the small and large clamp lands
• Loose or broken clamps after off‑road work, beach runs, or water crossings

If a boot is compromised but the joint is still quiet and free of play, a boot-only replacement with fresh CV grease can save the original joint. Use a quality boot kit (inner and outer are different), new stainless clamps, and the specified moly CV grease. Cheap split boots are a stopgap at best on a Navara that sees proper Aussie or Kiwi conditions.

Service tips for D22 4x4 owners:

• Inspect every 10,000–15,000 km, and after any muddy or sandy trips
• Clean and re-pack promptly if you spot a weep, don’t wait for clicking
• When one side fails, consider doing the pair — age and heat affect both
• Avoid twisting or over-stretching the new boot during fitment, seat clamps evenly

If your 1998 Navara is 2WD, CV boots aren’t used simply because the front wheels aren’t driven. The front end has steering and suspension components only, while drive is sent down a tailshaft with universal joints to the rear diff. In that case, keep an eye on rack/steering boots and tailshaft U-joints instead.

Popular questions about 1998 Nissan Navara CV boots

How can someone tell if the Navara’s CV boots need replacing?
They’ll usually spot grease flung around the inside of the rim, or see cracks in the rubber on a lifted vehicle. On a 4WD D22, it’s worth turning the steering to full lock and using a torch to check both the inner and outer boots on each side. If the boot has split for a while, the CV joint may start clicking on turns.

Can a 1998 Navara be driven with a torn CV boot?
Short-term, gentle driving might be possible, but it’s risky. Once the boot tears, grease escapes and contaminants get in, accelerating joint wear. It’s cheaper to replace a boot and re-pack grease now than to replace a noisy CV or complete shaft later — especially after sand, mud or water exposure.

How often should CV boots be checked on a D22 in Australia or New Zealand?
At each service or every 10,000–15,000 km is a fair guide. After beach work, river crossings, or heavy corrugations, inspect sooner. Heat, age, and off‑road movement make the boots a consumable on working and touring utes.