Chrysler Repair: 95 Minivan: half-axle, replace in pairs?, cv joint, axle assembly

Question
why do some mechanics advise that both trans axles be replaced at the same time. I just replaced the right trans axle assembly and the problem has gone away but i need to know if i need to replace the left trans axle also. thanks

Answer
Hi Dave,
I hadn't heard of that, it sounds like make-work to me. There is no reason to do both sides for practicality, as they are independent jobs. If the cause for replacement was a CV-joint or boot wearout I suppose they might argue that the other side is going to 'go' soon too, but generally I have found that not to be the case. I would advise just keeping an eye on the outside boot so you catch it if/when it starts to leak and before the joint dries up. They you can simply replace the boot rather than the entire half-axle.
Roland