CV axle and brake pad questions

[NK2007]

Alright... So my front left cv axle clicks when driving. Pretty much anytime, but especially when i am no on the throttle, just coasting. It has been getting louder over the past couple weeks, and i know it must be taken care of.

Here are my questions:
Can a clicking cv joint be cleaned and repacked?
How do i know if the whole axle needs to be replaced vs just the cv joint?
Where is the best place to purchace an axle/joint? I checked the regular auto parts stores around me but they only have axles for automatics...


Also, i need to replace my brake pads, what do you guys recommend for good performance yet low dust?

Thanks for your help!
Neill

[oneighty]

I just replaced my front left axle this weekend, its an easy job, way easier than replacing the joint alone. I couldn't get mine at the local autoparts store either (Advance Auto) but I was able to order it from their website for some reason. It was about 160 including the 80 core charge and they let you return the core to the local store even though you buy it online. So basically you get a whole new axle for 80 bucks delivered to your door and still have the convince of returning the core locally.

[beejohn]

clicking = have to replace axle.

raxles.com is what everyone uses. no core return needed, they will ship you tools required to replace the axle (8mm 12pt, and collar bolt hex). you only need to send the tools back.

[NK2007]

I just called raxles. Seems like a good product but damn! $173 for one!?! everywhere that i have seen them they were in the $70-120 range.

Any input on brake pads?

Thanks again!

[Nebone]

Good low dust pads which are really affordable are Mintex Red Box. They are good pads and offer OEM braking with less dust and no noise. I had them but moved on to Hawk HPS pads which are twice the money but I feel that its a cheap price to pay since brakes get replaced not so often.

You can find both from MJM Autohaus. You might want to call them for the Hawk pads as its not on the website.