I am about to tackle the job of installing new CV boots. While it seems like a messy job, it looks pretty straight forward.

My one question is ... Haynes mentions applying a bead of metal adhesive to the outer spline. What is the take on this.

Is there anything else I should be aware of?

Thanks - Kirk

They mean locktight BUT don't do it as it's not necessary and makes it VERY difficult to remove an axle if need be another time. There's no good reason why Volvo decided to add locktight to those splines as the splines never were a problem before they chose to do that later in production. Just make sure the axle nut is tightened to specs (89 ft lbs + 60 degreees) and you won't have any problems.
The older 850s didn't have their splines glued, nor do the newer cars now. They were doing that for a few years only and it makes it almost impossible to pound the shaft out w/o ruining a bearing hub or the shafts splines unless one is very carefull. Wasn't one of their better ideas IMO. I even add grease to the splines so that they don't rust in place for the next time as that'll happen too otherwise. I have yet to see a problem with one car if the nut's properly torqued.