"...As to the CV replacement, replace the entire axle..."

I did some cyber "window shopping" for CV joints, and yes, noting that was the way those things seem to be sold, I figured it was the way to go. I thought about the seal and probably wouldn't have replaced it but you make a good point about the shaft diameter possibly being sub-spec. Besides, when you think about it, any time you disturb of a 7 year old seal with 150K on it you're probably asking for a leak.

I've noticed on a couple occasions when I turned left while accelerating, it seems like I felt a little wump-wump-wump kind of feeling on that side. It may be time.

I'm thinking the front end of this car probably just needs a good going-through to really get it up to snuff.

BTW - the weather is perfect in Atlanta right now to get out and do some wrenching. Later in the summer, ugh, forget it!

Thanks.