Do Swing Axle Boots Leak When Car is Jacked Up?

[jkersting]

I pulled the motor from my 66 a few weeks ago to get heliocoils in my cylinder heads. The heads have been stuck at the shop and I've been replacing the piston/cylinders, clutch, rear seal, etc., while its all out.

The car has been jacked up with the rear wheels dangling and I noticed that the passenger side axle boot is weeping where it attaches to the axle. The boot looks to be in good shape. Not dried out or cracked, still pliable.

Do the boots leak a little when the wheels are in the air dangling about? Or should I add a new set of axle boots to my growing list of back-ordered parts? Plus I've never had an easy time replacing axle boots!
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[EverettB]

Yes, this can happen and often it's only one of the sides.
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[gt1953]

If you boots are leaking then replace them. Also quit ordering from a company that does not stock a consumeable item like axle boots.
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[Cusser]

Tighten the end clamp once the engine is in and the rear wheels on the ground. Not just now, anytime you change out a boot. Seam does not go straight up either, like 10 or 2 o'clock position. Then top off the gear oil.
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[KTPhil]

It's also a good idea to push the small end of the boot towards the tranny about 1/4" before tightening the clamp. This will give it a little more travel and so it won't leak at full extension like when jacked up.