galletgun

On one of my rear shocks of my 2001 rx300 the boot is torn near the bottom, exposing part of the shock underneath. Is this something I should be concerned with or is it not a problem. I currently have no issues with that shock and it seems to be working properly. Should I just tape the tear closed with some duct tape?

Lexmex

Are you talking about underneath the spring or on the axle?

Lexmex

Or is it this, the rubber boot seen behind the spring?

galletgun

Yes, on your second pic of the rubber boot behind the spring. Thnx for posting that pic.

Lexmex

Then, I've got the same situation you are alluding to then as both the boots on my rear shocks have gotten eroded over the years. I just cut off the eroded areas and the metal is a bit exposed there, but I have never had an issue with it.

galletgun

Ah, okay I guess ill just ignore it then. Thanks for the help.

Lexmex

These were the pictures of my rear shocks. Compare them with the picture from one of the front shocks above. I had to cut off the pieces of the rubber boot that were torn.

artbuc

I would repair it. That boot keeps road grit, salt and water from entering the strut piston rod seal. I don't have any data to prove it, but I'm guessing strut life will be materially shortened w/o the rubber shield.

salimshah

I am faced with identical situation ... ripped boot on rear shock.

I can not repair it and replacement is the only viable solution. After due consideration of the amount of work involved (not to mention the price ... the boot is not cheap), I have decided to forgo it. Granted it will expedite the demise of the shock, but I have 140k miles on my rx on original shocks. I will replace the shock and the boot together in future. [which I think will come sooner now, due to my decision].

Salim