replacing the outer bearing is easy. pull the pinion nut and the flange, pull the seal. this will allow you to pull the outer bearing. if the bearing and or race looks fine ie. not brinneled or gouged in any way it is probobly the crush sleeve. this is easy to replace and set. slide the new on into positon and replace all the parts to set the crush sleeve you tighten the pinion nut to a set torque (sorry i cant recall the foot#) and its done.
if everything apears ok in the bearing and sveeve dept. i would stop there and pull the whole 3rd.
1. pull the e-brake pins and the brake lines 10mm wrench put rubber vaccum caps on the end of the lines.
2. pull the 4, 14mm nuts that hold the axles in place and slide the axles out at least 6 in. (you should pull them all the way and replace the axle seals.)
3. pull the 10, 12mm nuts that hold the 3rd in place (you will probobly have to hit the bottom of the 3rd with a dead blow hammer to get it to release) pull the 3rd all the way out.
4. with the 3rd on the bench check the ring gear for wear ie. knife edged teeth wear on the carrier etc.
hopefully all looks good if not take it to a reputable shop for repairs.
Good luck!! :thumb:
