Damaged half shaft boot

[1993]

Trying to decide whether to just replace boot or entire half shaft.
The unknown is how long the truck has been driven with compromised boot(how much dirt has gotten in).
if I'm already taking it apart, is my time better spent replacing the whole assembly?
If replacing, should I upgrade to heavier shaft?
No symptoms noticed yet but I haven't driven on the highway lol


Also(not related as far as I know), is it normal that when you hold the brake pedal, the truck can be moved forward and back about an inch?
Only notice it sometimes when stoping hard, truck bounces back and forward a little. Guessing it has something to do with the brakes being set back from the wheels?

Thanks!

 

[Mike82ndABN]

I would replace the whole shaft and keep the old as a spare (after you do the boot on it).

 

[dmetalmiki]

I am curious to hear the response from others, But the vehicle should not jump backwards? and forwards? when braking hard in motion. Unless the body is loose!. And if you are stationary with the brakes applied, No the vehicle should not move in the least, Ether way. Unless you are talking about a propshaft handbrake.

 

[Retiredwarhorses]

It's the normal roll of the HMMWV due to e geared Hubs, they all do it.

 

[Action]

You will learn to feather the brake pedal to lessen the rocking at the stop signs.