Chevy & GMC Vans

Newby here with new (to me) 96 AWD Safari. It has a completely severed (2 pieces) inner boot on right front driveshaft.

I have two questions: 1) do I have to disconnect the right upper ball joint (and maybe the shock absorber) to remove and replace the driveshaft with a rebuilt shaft from the local aps. OR
2) can I just have both front driveshafts permanently removed since I really prefer 2WD (I WILL be moving away from snow region before next winter) for the better gas mileage (1-1/2 - 2mpg?) and less stuff and weight (I would remove front differential and driveshaft from the transfer case when weather gets better)

Looking at postings on this forum it appears that the answer to the 1st idea is YES and the answer to idea #2 is NO.

Although I have helped a 2WD van owner disconnect and reinstall his upper ball joint, it was a tougher job than we expected (until I was able drill out the rivets) and I have reached the age of not taking on big projects outside in the blowing snow and cold, I question my ability to get #1 done. But it appears the best solution. OR can I reasonably expect to drive the van with the bad boot to Arizona (850 miles) and then replace the right front driveshaft there.

Any other ideas? Wrap the torn boot with some plastic and twisties before hitting the road?

They sell repair boots you could put on for a temporary fix if the joints are still functional.

If I remember correctly it was about $30 more for the shaft vs those quickboots.

No, you can't just remove the cv axle from the front differential and wheel bearing hub assembly and drive. The center nut on the wheel hub bearing attached to the cv axle is what sets bearing preload in the hub/bearing assembly so without that, potentially disastrous consequences.

Also I believe you wouldn't have park if you pull one drive shaft as it will allow the transfer case to turn allowing the van to roll away as if it was left in neutral.

Thanks for replies. Repair boot, quickboot? Where? I have only been able to find one and it isn't a split boot (like old vw swing axle boots) that can be installed without taking the axle out. I agree in the case of having to remove the existing shaft to slide new boot on that just installing a replacement shaft makes good sense. I was really hoping that taking both shafts out would solve an immediate problem and be a step to converting to 2WD

Again, thanks for help guys. Being pressed for time and not desiring to work outside in sub-freezing weather on a job I wasn't sure I have the tools for, I found a new shaft at a flaps for about $75.00 and a mechanic working in his residence garage who charged me $150. Most shops wanted $250-300 + the shaft at a marked-up price.

Then of course the next "good news" was the check engine light coming on. AAArrrgg! Looks like I get to change a cat. converter. Then I found a run-down 94 2WD Astro conversion, which is a whole new project. No I am NOT thinking of swapping the 94 drive train to the 96.