[Fred A]

When the driveshaft and pinion are removed without splitting the axle housings, a puller is used to access the pinion nut and bearing assembly. That allows the optimistic claim that the rear axle disassembly is not required. Many take the whole rear axle apart to inspect the parts and replace the bearings and seals. Some also change the axle ratio to maximize the advantage of available overdrive. I prefer the 4.11 ratio with modified four cylinder engines. With my V8-60, the 4.56 ratio with V8 passenger car(15/28) is my choice. Many choices are available and just as many are poor choices are commony praised wrongly. I believe in my choices without reservation. Good Luck: Fred A