8 3/4 742 Center Section Rebuilding

Well the mechanic I was going to have rebuild my center section has ghosted me so dang it I'm going to do it myself! (first time!)

It is a 742 center with clutch type Powr-Lok, 1969 (IIRC), I will only be reusing the cast iron center section, caps, yoke and Powr-Lok carrier. All else will be new.

Before disassembly I will punch IDs into the caps and the carrier for reassembly

Questions...

1. I don't have a proper way to hold the yoke to remove / install the nut. I have seen plates that use the U-Joint Bolt holes to secure it to the yoke and add a breaker bar for leverage. I have seen a Miller 6719 type took that goes around the outside of the yoke. I could use a huge pipe wrench or vice. Any good or bad to the above options?

Once I get it apart I will remove the bearing races and have the cast parts cleaned.

Question...

1. Sand blasting, Media blasting, hot tank? issues with any option?

I plan to leave the external cast surfaces that are not currently painted natural and was thinking use a clear matt finish after cleaning.

Question...

1. Recommendations on product / manufacturer for rattle can paint?

As I get closer to pulling the trigger And during assy I will have MANY more questions

I had planned to follow the 67 FSM but with it being a 742 center with 69 gears Im thinking 69 would be better

Question...

1. would I be better to follow 69 FSM?
2. Can I press in the races without a press? should I have a machine shop do this part?
3. Dr Diff sells a spanner wrench for the bearing preload (out of stock), other options?
4. What other special tools will I need? Dial Indicator? Magnetic base? Feeler gauges?

Thanks guys.