Wow, what a weekend.
I started to pull the front axles, and encountered the infamous hub bolt that would NOT come out. I put the impact to it, and the 13mm 12pt bolt head became round. I went out and got the bolt-out socket, and finally persuaded the bolt out.
Had to go to TSC to find a replacement metric grade five bolt to replace it with until I can get a real replacement. 5 hours later, Axles out.
Next challenge, 13yr old u-joints can be stubborn! Thank God my 50yr old vise was built tough. Me the Vise and a BFH finally won. Two new Spicer u-joints installed!
Pulled the Diff Carrier, popped out the Axle seals, and called the wife for an assist.
I held the socket over the seal, she pounded the pipe through the opposite axle with the BFH. I owe no oil leaks to my loving partner (did I mention it’s now 11:30 at night?).
Now the fun!! I replaced the spider gears with the No-Slip that has been on workbench for the past month. Put it all to back together without a hitch.
Pulled the back diff and replaced it with the new No-Slip I got Thursday. (only an hour and a half job) Sunday @ 7:00 I got to take it for a road test. So far so good.
Road manners changed a little, off road manners changed a LOT!
I’m still running the “break in” period, so got to take it easy.
Sorry for no pics, it rained all weekend and I was wet and in no mood for documentation.
Now I’m by no means an expert, but if any one needs and input on this procedure, I would be happy to share what I learned.
Can't wait to go play!