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So I've looked in the manual and even looked in a CJ rebuilders guide by Moses Ludel and I've still got a question. I'd like to inspect and repact with grease the axle bearings (if they are good and don't need to be replaced). I've basically pulled off everything and exposed the bearing. Now I need to take a puller and remove the axle shaft. My concern is this. If I were to remove the axle shaft, would it mess anything up inside the pumpkin? I'm a little worried that if I yank that shaft out, I may have some parts in the pumkin "fall" out of place. THe book and manual make it seem like everything will be fine, but I wanted to make sure before I did it. THanks guys.

Yank away. The only thing to be concerned with are the axle tube seals. You should replace the outers while it is apart. I'd also pull the cover plate, and inspect and clean out the pumpkin. Check the carrier for damage, chipped or broken teeth, loose cross pin, or rusty things. There are also inner seals which can only be accessed with the carrier removed from the housing. When you put the axles back in, try and hold them so their weight doesn't rest on the seals. If you find the axle bearing are pitted or bad, it takes a press to change them. Hopefully your inner stuff is in good shape. John

When I pulled the Diff cover, it looked like everything had been reworked around 1990 or so. It didn't drive much even after that because the odometer was relatively low (I know this can be changed, but still) It may have had 1000 miles on it. I don't know and that is why I'd like to inspect I plan on replacing the seals just because I'm assuming they are old and haven't been touch in a good 20 years so they could use a replacement. I just want to make sure the bearings are good and repack or replace if needed. Press? No problem. I've got two at work I can use. I appreciate the help as I really didn't want to mess up my axle!