3/4 ton axles for my 1/2 ton...maintenance suggestions?

[fallguy]

Just bought new (to me) 3/4 ton axles for my 1/2 ton...going from 3.42 to 4.10 gears. Any suggestions on what I should do to service them pre-transplant? I don't want, nor do I have the budget to, completely rebuild them. But I also want to do what I can to make sure they're going to be fine.

Obviously I will open differentials and change out fluid.

I think I should redo wheel bearings while I'm at it.

I'll go through brakes (new rotors and resurface drums, new pads).

New locking hubs most likely.

 

[bucket]

I normally just put them in with new fluid and only replace the brakes if they are worn, never had any issues by slacking/going cheap. I did have to replace the left hub bearings in my Burb's front axle, but that was after driving it several thousand miles. That axle had been sitting under a truck, parked on the side of a hill for years.

 

[towjoe]

I ussally change fluid and repack/inspect bearings when I change out axles. I also replace hub seals, It's cheap insurance.

 

[GreaseDog]

I ussally change fluid and repack/inspect bearings when I change out axles. I also replace hub seals, It's cheap insurance.

Word. Replace all of the hub seals, inspect the wheel bearings, turn the drums and rotors, and replace the brake linings and hardware. Also inspect the balljoints and axle joints. Get the axles ready to roll before you cut the ubolts off of your old axle. Be aware that you will need new ubolts, as well as 3/4 ton spring plates for the rear.