Another 8.75 post

Ive tried doing my searches and I keep on getting conflicting answers. I bought a 8.75 rear end from a guy that I believe was trying to be honest with me. He claimed that it was sold to him as an original '68 charger rear end with unknown gearing. He admitted that he was unable to take the drums off and that the drums were siezed but we were able to make them spin with some breaker bars. He gave it to me for $50 with a set of rims mounted so I took it. Upon disassembly I found it has tapered axles with castle nuts and the most beat up set of brakes I have ever seen in my life.
Question is... I am 99% sure I can re-use the center section and housing as those remain relatively universal across all 8.75's? If I swap out the axles to the more traditional style can I just throw a new drum on the front and call it a day? Or do I need a complete brake upgrade with backing plates and all? Is there anything else I am missing/should check before I go any further?

Thank you in advance

p.s. I understand I will need to move perches and possibly narrow the rear end to make it work in my A body