How bad is this gonna hurt?

[Choxnpinz]

I just noticed the outer CV boot is torn on my 1998 Durango's front-RIGHT end. The boot is cut completely around and there's grease EVERYWHERE. I had it in a body shop after my daughter ran it up sideways onto a curb (taking out both LEFT side tires) and just got it out 48 hours ago. Since they replaced all the wheels & tires and did a front wheel alignment & checked chassis alignment, is it possible that the repair shop cut the boot? I'm not a mechanic (actually, I'm a flight engineer in the USAF and know a lot more about planes than cars), would it be normal to remove the boot for any reason during an alignment? Do you think it just failed on its own or did the shop do it, trying to pull me back in for more work? I've already called my insurance agent and told them it sounds fishy that it just failed right after having the front end worked on... I'm taking it back tomorrow but I'm sure the manager will insist it's unrelated. What I'm seeking your advice on is the following:

1. What are the odds they caused the problem whether intentionally or accidentally?

2. What will replacing it cost if my insurance company agrees that it's unrelated? Keep in mind, I can't do it myself, so what's the approximate commercial tally for parts & labor?

I'm flying out to Iraq again next week and need to get this cleared up immediately, so prompt answers would be appreciated! You guys are the experts, give it to me straight...

Thanks folks!

Chox
http://www.choxnpinz.com

[mopar rt]

My best advice is to take it back to where it was repaired and have them correct the problem. If the boot is torn the joint may have been damaged as well. Even if the joint is not damaged it will soon fail because dirt will enter into the joint.

Good luck in Iraq.. I spent my time the last go around.

[Choxnpinz]

....who told me that running the truck into the curb sideways (hitting the left side) could have pushed the axle through to the other side, stretching the boot and the first sharp turn tore it up. Does this sound feasible?

Thanks again!!

Chox