Independent4x

[tom4bren]

That's what I did but I lost some of the tension in the process (didn't look very professional either). It did work though.

[Ascinder]

I didn't actually end up using the bands they came with. I went out and got a couple sets that work a little differently, so I never ended up getting the tool. I think the kind I got have a point on them that sticks up higher than the ones that came with the mecatechs, and have been secretly wondering if it was somewhat to blame for the boots tearing prematurely. I also used redline super spendy hyper fantastic synthetic grease instead of what they came with and have also been secretly wondering if it could have at all weakened the boots up some causing my CV woes as well. I guess sometimes it's a curse really, my inherent compulsion to always try and tamper with things that is.....

[tom4bren]

I thought about using some industrial grade zip ties instead of the metal straps but changed my mind for that very reason (it's called 'over engineering'). In hind sight, I think they would have worked better.

[ZEUS]

I did have those HD zipties on the stock boots before I changed them out. They installed tightly enough and lasted, but it seemed like the clip thing would get too close to the boot and the clipped plastic part of the band would maybe rub a hole in the boot in time. Not sure though.

[Ascinder]

What we really need are some industrial rubber bands like giant versions of the ones that come on broccoli in the supermarket. If the boot is rubber and it holds up to the elements then why not. Also makes lubing/cleaning easy.

[tom4bren]

I can just picture me doing a boot swap & getting the whole thing back together before realizing I forgot to put the rubberbands around the axle first. What a kick in the arse that would be.