1985 M1008 DANA 60 front axle pinion gear bearing replacement advice

[mikev]

During a starter change-out, discovered lots of slop in the drive flange assembly.

Pulled the diff cover and water poured out plus sludge. Ebay seller and infrequent SS member said "all fluids new" in his ad - yeah, right...

So, looks like I need both drive pinion bearings plus seals. I'm thinking differential carrier side bearings and inner axle seals should be replaced too.

I did a search and most importantly is measuring and marking parts before removal...

My question is:

* Any "gotcha's" on doing this job?

Other than the water and sludge inside, the gears looked good and the drive pinion gear/ring gear shows no sign of broken teeth/gauling...

What do you Dana 60 experts think? I hate to pull the axle and/or replace it because of pinion gear bearing failure...

Thanks in advance and if anyone is interested in doing this job in my shop (or me trailering to your shop) pls pm me.

 

[4x4 Forever]

When you get it all apart, clean everything up and INSPECT everything, especially the gears...
I would change the bearings while you are in there.
It looks like that has been in there awhile.