Getting Ready for the 4th of July Parade- Replace Rear Final

[CPIII]

I am getting the Captain ready for the July 4th parade in Shiner, Texas. One of the things on the list is to make sure I have good brakes. A while back i purchased a replacement rear final to swap out with mine that was cracked and somewhat repaired along the way. the replacement final has good brakes and I would have to remove the repaired final to replace the brake band anyway. So two birds...one stone. What really worries me is twisting off a bolt while trying to remove the old final. Other than a bunch of PB Blaster does anyone have any tips for me? I don't want to cause more issues.......

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[Dale Finch]

Only suggestion I have is replace the seal in the differential while you have the final off. It is available from NAPA, and though it is a LOT thinner than the old ones, it IS the correct replacement. Does the "new" final have new seals as well? If not, now is the time to replace those, too. This week I completed my rebuild and installation of a "new" final on my '55 which had a repaired final on it. I had one bolt hole that I helicoiled while apart, and "chased" all the other holes to meke installation easier.

Good luck and have fun July 4th!!

Oh...don't forget to block the front axle when you jack up the rear to remove the final. I was able to do the swap by myself, but used an engine hoist to lift the final while I lined things up...'bout my favorite tool, since I don't have as much strength as you guys!

[Mike in Louisiana]

Most of the time the rear final will come off with out breaking bolts. It.is nice if you have someone to help with the remove and replace. Right side is heavy.

[CPIII]

Thanks for the replies guys....but if you have noticed my most recent post.....replacing the front end has made it to the top of thee list....Fun Fun Fun!!