1989 Chev K1500 - CV axle replacement cost?

[DewDropper89]

All -

I have a 1989 Chev K1500 pickup with the 350 ci engine and 164,xxx miles. When the wheel is turned to near lock (in 2WD) and you allow the vehicle to roll, there is a popping noise that comes from the front of the vehicle. When in 4WD, just a little turn of the wheel will create the noise - it sounds horrible - and you can visually see the front wheels "jerking" when the pop noise occurs like there is binding going on internally. The faster you move, the higher the frequency of the noise (in 2 and 4WD). The 4WD works, but I don't trust it or use it anymore because of this. I have been told the CV axles may be worn out and in need of replacement. Does this sound like the problem? What do CV axles for this vehicle cost (parts only) and what would the average labor time be if I had a mechanic do the work?

Thanks all, I am trying to figure out if I should fix or sell the truck as-is and move on. I have had it for many years and it has always been dead reliable.

Thanks.

[Jeremy airjer W]

Are you sure its not a ball joint? Have you jacked up the front end and rotated the tires be hand while they are in a full turn left and right?

[deadeye]

Sounds like a really bad cv axle to me. I have replaced a couple lately that were doing exactly what your describing.

It sure wouldnt hurt to check the ball joints as well. Its a old chevy so they could be on their way out too. When you got it in the air check the wheel bearings too. Again, probably not the problem but its worth looking at.

The axle should run about 50$ with exchange at a auto parts store. Otherwise I have gotten a couple at the yard recently for a freinds winter beater for around 15$ and they worked fine. If its a vehicle your on the fence about keeping, junkyard parts are a way to get just a little more out of it.

[jeffreyd]

make sure what ever you do, you get the boots back on tight. lack of grease and or water/dirt causes these to go out quickly. while you have a lot of miles, it is time for them to start failing. good time to do breaks if you need them.

[DewDropper89]

Thanks for your helpful posts, all. I haven't done anything just yet, but your info will surely help me make the decision on what to do next...

Thanks again.