8.8 Axle regear

[Mazd4x4ped]

I am planning on regearing my axle to either a 456 or 488 depending on what prices i can get. I have to 4.0L v6 and the 8.8 axle. Ive never taken an axle apart before an have to clue what to do. I am great with a wrench but I am going in blind here. Are there any special tools i need? Will I be gettin my self way in over my head if I try to regear it myself and does anyone know of a place where I can find a step by step instructions manual? Thanks guys

 

[Fx4wannabe01]

If you've never taking an axle apart or worked on one, I suggest not attempting your own gear swap. It does require some specialty tools(inch pound wrench w/ a dial not a clicker, 1/2" drive torque wrench, magnetic dial indicator, bearing press, pinion depth tool/checker, hotplate though it's not required). It's a pretty indepth process of tolerance checks.

Go to Ringpinion.com (Randy's) and order their book called "Differentials: Indentification, Restoration & Repair". VERY VERY VERY informative and I learned alot.....and I still didn't do my gear swap myself. Botched install = broken teeth, no warranty on the gearset, etc...

 

[4x4junkie]

There are some links within the Axle FAQ post at the top here where you can read up on installing gears.

As FX4 said, it's not something to be taken lightly, but with enough reading and patience (and acquiring all the proper tools needed), it can be done. I very highly recommend you do not do your very first gear install on your primary vehicle that you have to rely on for transportation however.