Development of Long-Life C.V.J. Boot Seals for Taxi Cab Applications

Constant velocity joint (C.V.J.) boot seals for front engine front drive (FF) taxi cabs in Japan, particularly those on the wheel side, have not necessarily satisfied the normal life requirement.

This paper provides an analysis on the breakage mechanism of conventional boot seals made of chloroprene rubber, in terms of deterioration caused by ozone and concave deformations caused by negative pressures, together with experimental descriptions on the superiority of silicon rubber boot seals over conventional boot seals in terms of the ozone resistance and the function of respiration.

Further, effectiveness of O-rings installed in boot valleys is described, in relation to applications of such rings to areas involving frequent high rotational angles.