I decided I better replace a torn outer boot on the rear of my uforce. Going to pick up a new one but curious if anyone has replaced with an oem boot and if I'll be able to stretch it over the joint using the funnel method or if I should source a specific aftermarket 'stretchy' boot to make it easier.

I am hoping to avoid pulling the axle off completely and taking apart the inner joint in order to slide it down that way. Videos I have seen online show the method, I'm just not sure if the rubber on these boots will be compatible with stretching it over the 3" wide end.

[2015 Z Force 800 53/Trail EPS]

From shat I have seen, these CFM boots are more plastic then rubber and likely won't stretch enough. Besides, if that crack has been there for any time you will want to pull it apart, clean it up and re-grease it anyway.

Fair enough. I was hoping I could clean it out good enough in place without removing it, but that's probably best. Seems like it is going to take some persuasion to get the whole thing out of the diff and I doubt I can knock off the outer Cv unless I have the whole thing out and in a vice.

[2015 Z Force 800 53/Trail EPS]

They usually don't take that much to pop out of the diffs. Might have to rotate it a few 1/4 turns between each attempt to get the circlip just right but that's usually it. It's the popping technique that seems the most important. Can't just pull against the circlip and expect the bevel to constrict it down. Have to push in first and have all the play it has to the inside first to get the snapping action when you pop it outwards. It's only a few thousands but it makes a difference. And the one joint I took apart was just a matter of removing one large clip and it just came apart. It's amazing how much grease it can hold...and how much wear just a little dirt and dust can cause.   

Managed to get it out without too much cursing. You're right- it's about the jerking more than just pulling. A few pulls, a couple turns, it popped out. Cleaned it up a fair amount but haven't pulled the balls and race out yet, just cleaned around them and used compressor. I'll probably try and pop the balls out shortly- hopefully it isn't too much of a bear to get them out. At first glance, it doesn't look like it will be easy.

Found this vid of that part of the process that I found extremely well done and detailed. Will be trying this shortly.

https://youtu.be/ER0t4XGJFmM?feature=shared

Success. These things always seem much more daunting than they end up being. I feel better knowing I got it fully clean and all the bits are in good shape.

Parts should arrive in the next few days and then hopefully I can get this back together, my new Ujoint, and have the bike running again by next weekend. Fingers crossed!

[2015 Z Force 800 53/Trail EPS]

Good..Yeah that's the way it usually is for me too- the "before" thoughts are always different then the "after" thoughts. Hardly ever as bad as I thought it was going to be. For me I bought a banding tool and it's been used all of once for two bands. I almost think I could have done it without it but...