front end gear change

[ChicagoFJ60]

I want to change the front end ring/pinion, do i have to remove everything off the axle to get at the diff? what sst do i need to invest in before i tackle the project? The reason i only ask about the front, it that i bought a ff rear axle that has 4.11 in it, and i need to change the front now (from 3.70)
I have 33's, so i thought the upgrade to 4.11 would be nice, but is it going to be easier to just put the 3.70 back into the rear end?


Nicholas

 

[Mace]

it is almost the same amount of work

If you need to rebuild you front knuckles then do it. if not, pull the steering arms off and slide the shafts out a bit by pulling the knuckles off.

Then you can pull the third..

Piece of cake actually..

 

[erfworm]

If you are not just dropping in a new third member with the 4.11s already set up in it, you will need everything to properly set up gears. Dial indicator, some kind of pinion flange holding tool, adjuster nut tool, etc. If you're already set up than disregard those tools and go Mace's route. Or for fun, buy a wheel bearing socket and go through it that way. Always a good excuse to re grease em and adjust if necessary. Either way takes about as much time a the rear.

 

[Mace]

Only special tool you really need is a dial indicator and a magnetic stand (cheap at harbor freight) everything else is gravy..

Learnign how to set up a diff is not complex and can actually be pretty fun