Any how to's on rear axle seal and bearings replacement?

[msg]

I have a 66 that Im rebuilding and thought to have this rear axle sandblasted and then replace all the needed stuff that sand might find its way into. Ive been told to replace the seals and bearings but have never done work like that before. I called a garage and asked what they would charge for replacing all needed parts after a blast and was told at least $300.

Is it best to pay for that or is it something that can be done if someones got a how to on it?

Its a 12 bolt with E176 stamped lower right. From the other side (looking at the axle from the transmission) it reads 3856525 at the top right and on the tube what I think is a date stamp reads HA 06 02 W

Years back when I replaced the gear oil and gasket these numbers were stamped on the ring gear

3817778 11 41 GM 5 66 2

I recall that 11 and 41 were the numbers to use from that to ID the gear ratio.
41 div by 11 giving me 3.727 (3.73)

[revjames]

No don't pay to have it done. It is pretty simple you can do it. Here is a link with great instructions. If you have question just ask I literally just finished doing mine this week.
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=557791

[revjames]

Here is mine

[msg]

Originally Posted by revjames

No don't pay to have it done. It is pretty simple you can do it. Here is a link with great instructions. If you have question just ask I literally just finished doing mine this week.
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=557791

Thanks for replies,
Ive got some time before I attempt this, just had it blasted and about to paint it now. Once the paints cured I was gonna give it a go. Had a couple of q's.

Questions

1. Is there a part brand that is best to get for the replacement parts?
2. The yoke on the front of the axle, since I had sandblasting done I figure that seal needs replacing too. Any experience with that and how to go about it?

[Evoracer]

Simple job, though my axle seals would not budge until I applied a little heat.

[revjames]

Well time and dirt and rust can be havok. Your local auto parts store may have a tool loaner program and have a bearing puller or slide hammer. As far as your rear end you have a 3.72 rear end if the number on your tag are correct

[Evoracer]

Can't say about the best parts, but in general you're going to have a bear of a time with the crush sleeve and proper pinion yoke preload. There is a ton of info across the web.

I went with shims in place of the crush sleeve. Easier, but took way longer to setup. ymmv

[cg285]

mark your pinion nut and a matching mark on the yoke (so they align). when reinstalling go 1/8" past the mark and you will be fine