10 BOLT 8.5" Front axle questions

[mtnmankev]

I was working on rebuilding the front end on my 84 K10 (ball joints, etc) and upon final reassembly found the driver's side axle u-joint sits on the stud for the lower ball joint.
While it was apart, I did an inspection and found a really bad taper worn into the axle shafts where they ride in the bearings. I installed a new bearing in the driver's side spindle (it was wiped and I only found 3 needle bearings).
I found a set of good used 28 spline axles but I'm wondering if the differential bearings and spider gears are worn so bad that they need replacement.
I have heard both good and bad about using a differential spreader tool, and it's hard to justify buying one just to have it sit in the shed never to be used again.
So, I'm not in a rush to yank the differential carrier and bearings until I figure everything out.
Also, I saw where a special tool is needed to replace the axle tube seals behind the diff bearings. Is that true, or can I replace them without buying yet another tool that will never get used again?
If I do end up replacing the diff carrier, I want to install a limited slip, it would help a lot in the mud, and is a far cry better than having an open differential. Can anybody recommend an economical limited slip that won't kill my budget but still do the job?
Thanks, guys ...

 

[mtnmankev]

I see that I screwed up and posted this in the wrong section.
I'm still getting used to the site and I'm stressed about my F150 transmission blowing up now I gotta buy another truck, it would be cheaper.
Trying to buy an 83 C20.
I still want to fix the 84 K10 and keep it running.

 

[Boone83K10]

Is this going to be a driver or a play toy. You wouldn't want LS or locker on the front if it's just for the street. By all means put it in the rear but it stresses the hell outta the front with an LS or locker.

 

[mtnmankev]

It's for a driver, but where I live off the grid the roads get horrible muddy after a storm and some extra pulling power would be a benefit, top speed will be maybe 15 to 20 mph.
I also go off road to cut firewood and on the hills and loose rock want all the pull I can get. Again, low speed operation.

 

[mtnmankev]

Also, I am keeping the same gear set.
Not going to remove the pinion gear.
When I install the LS carrier with my old ring gear, am I going to need a shim kit to set the depth, or should I be okay using my existing shims?

 

[Boone83K10]

It would come with new shims in the ls kit

 

[mtnmankev]

I found a used LS unit on fleabay, was all I can afford.
Somehow, I doubt it's going to come with shims.

 

[Boone83K10]

I would pass on that if I were you

 

[mtnmankev]

Too late, paid for and has been shipped.
As long as it fits the axle housing and keeps the axle u-joints from sitting on the lower ball joint stud I'll be happy.
My axles are totally wiped out, even with my bad eyes I can see the horrible taper worn on the bearing surfaces and I'm confident my existing spider gear splines are trashed.
The good used axles I got from a local guy will last me many years.
There's no way I can afford to buy all new parts.