Dave M

Dave,
Major thankx for the tip on removing the starter (2x4 and floor jack). I used a pipe and bottle jack, worked 1st time with relative ease.
Thankx again
Fhoward

I just noticed this PM after already getting your email so I'm responding.

Thanks again for all your help Steve. I don't have a dial indicator so I'm not checkling backlash. Since everything is going back in the same I figure it should not be a problem. I'll try to find a diial indicator. I guess to check backlash you are measuring the amont of place while turing the ring gear until the it starts to turn. Am I correct here.

Thanks,
Dave

Dave,

I went through this seal replacment a couple of years ago on a 97 2400 4x4 with 125k miles. The carrier was removed safely and quickly with just a simple pry bar (pointed at one end, hooked claw at the other). If you are interested, I wrote myself a long step by step note on the whole project which I can email you if you are interested. Keep in mind I am NOT a mechanic and that you should use your own judgement if in doubt about any instructions.