Front axles got water inside outside rubber boot 2004 diesel manual

[flash61 Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close flash61]

Morning, Just after some thoughts Both front axles are throwing out small quantities of grey oil consistency droplets from the outside end of the outer boot I suspect water has got in past the boots and mixed with the grease To repair this is a bit of a job and suspect could be pulled apart cleaned in place and repacked with grease although maybe I will have to replace the bearings etc
But not sure What do others think please?
Part 2 This is the first time have had what I believe to be an all wheel drive vehicle and wonder if one removes the front driveshaft can one simply drive round like that or will something else happen as a result
Please also look at the parts wanted section as need rear bumper section for non wide flares model etc

[Corigator Avid PP Poster! Find all posts View Profile Close Corigator]

Flash61,

As I understand it you would have to engage the centre diff lock to drive around with the front shaft removed.

[flash61 Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close flash61]

Dear Corigator,
Thanks mate and as I have this insecurity around the status of the front axle water enhanced bearings ( are they failing or not) I am looking at innovative ways to take the pressure off the bearings till I can make sure the rest of this luffly ex mines vehicle is suitable to drive around your lucky country Gordon Perth

[Corigator Avid PP Poster! Find all posts View Profile Close Corigator]

I probably wouldn't want to drive for too many ks using this method. Others may be able to say if locking the centre diff puts extra strain on it.