Symptoms
Torn boots throwing grease, clicking on turns, or a worn seal surface where the shaft enters the hub input seal.
The fix, step by step
- The halfshaft bolts to the inboard brake rotor at one end and splines into the geared hub at the other.
- On the right rear you must remove the parking brake cable to get it out.
- Each CV joint has a star, cage and six balls, and the cage is usually what fails.
- Flash Off-Road says the 1994-on joints share Rockford parts with the 1993–98 Mercury Villager and Ford Explorer.
- Fit new boots and clips, and a Speedi-Sleeve (99199) if the seal surface is grooved.
- Reinstall the six M10 class 10.9 bolts with new Nord-Lock washer pairs and red Loctite at 57 lb-ft.
- Overtightening can warp the rotor.
Tools & part numbers
- 3/8-in drive short socket and extension
- retaining-ring pliers
- CV boot crimper
- torque wrench
- Nord-Lock washers
- Loctite 272
Where to buy the parts
CV joint boot, 1998 H1 6.5 TD (catalog)RockAuto ↗
CV axle, 1998 H1 6.5 TD (catalog)RockAuto ↗
H1 Heavy Duty 12k Half Shaft KitPredator Inc ↗Amazon ↗
Hunting a used or discontinued part? Search eBay Motors for AM General Hummer H1 parts →
Rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, support the truck on stands rather than a jack, and work at your own risk (disclaimer). Some parts links are affiliate links, which pay us a small commission at no cost to you.