Parts for your 2017 Ford Ranger-Cv boots

Understanding CV Boots on the 2017 Ford Ranger

The 2017 Ford Ranger is a tough and reliable ute designed for both work and play. When it comes to the vehicle's drivetrain, one common maintenance topic is CV boots. But are CV boots actually relevant or used on the 2017 Ford Ranger? The short answer is yes, CV boots are definitely fitted to this model, especially on versions with 4x4 systems, and they play an important role in keeping your Ranger running smoothly.

CV boots, or constant velocity boots, are essentially protective rubber covers that shield the CV joints in your vehicle's drive shafts. On four-wheel-drive (4WD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicles like the Ford Ranger, the CV joints allow power to be transferred smoothly through the suspension and steering angles to the wheels. The boots keep these joints lubricated and free from dirt, grit, and water.

Why is this so important? Well, without the boots, the CV joints would be exposed to the elements, which would cause the grease inside to leak out and contaminants to get in. This leads to accelerated wear and eventual joint failure, which can be costly and dangerous if left unattended. So the humble CV boot does the important job of extending the life of these essential components.

On the 2017 Ford Ranger, especially those equipped with the 4x4 drivetrain, CV boots cover the CV joints at either end of the drive shafts. You might notice some flexibility in the boots as you steer or as the suspension moves up and down, which is by design to allow the joints freedom of movement while maintaining their protection.

Keeping your CV boots in good nick should definitely be part of the regular maintenance routine for any Ford Ranger owner. Here's what should be on the radar when it comes to CV boot care:

• Regular inspections: It's a good idea to visually check the CV boots every service or at least every 10,000 to 15,000 kilometres. Look for any splits, cracks, grease leaks or signs of damage. A damaged CV boot means the joints are vulnerable.
• Listen for sounds: If you're hearing clicking or popping noises when turning, especially sharp turns, it could signal that the CV joint is compromised, often due to boot failure letting dirt in.
• Grease condition: The boots trap grease inside the joints. If the boots are damaged, grease can leak out, reducing lubrication and increasing friction. This speeds up joint wear.

When it comes to replacing CV boots on the 2017 Ford Ranger, the process can be pretty straightforward, but it's recommended to have it done by a qualified mechanic. They'll remove the damaged boot, clean out the old grease and contaminants from the CV joint, repack it with fresh grease, and fit a new boot that seals everything tightly. Trying to stretch out the life of a leaking or torn boot usually won't work, as once contaminants enter, the joint can suffer internally.

Servicing the CV boots as soon as damage is spotted can save a world of trouble and cost down the track. If left unattended, a ruined CV joint might mean replacing the entire drive shaft assembly, which can be significantly more expensive than a simple boot replacement. For those regularly taking their Ranger off-road or on rough terrain, checking the CV boots often is even more crucial given the higher exposure to dirt and debris.

The Ford Ranger also performs well in wet and muddy conditions, but this also increases the stress on CV boots. Mud and water can accelerate rubber degradation and seep into damaged boots pretty quickly. It pays to give the CV boots a quick visual over after a wet trip or heavy off-road run.

In short, CV boots might not be the most glamorous part of a vehicle, but for the 2017 Ford Ranger, they are an unsung hero protecting the drivetrain's moving parts. Treat them well by regular checks, listen out for unusual noises, and keep on top of any signs of wear or damage, and the Ranger will reward you with many kilometres of reliable performance whether on the bitumen or the bush.