8 3/4 Issues

Hi there. Glad to see you jump it to do it yourself. If you don’t try it you’ll never buy the tools. First and best tool you will need is a FACTORY service manual. If you’re working on a mix bag of parts get a 69 manual it’s a good start. It’ll get you most info and if your application is not exact you can just look it up or ask. Next get a dial indicator with a magnetic base. Most people or even mechanics don’t know this but when the pinion is out look on the machined surface and you’ll see a number stamped on them. This is the number from baseline. Add or subtract as required and change the pinion shim to match. Assemble and set your ring gear clearance with that dial indicator. PS if that pinion uses a crush sleeve get a new one if you can if not hammer it out some so the pinion bearing has the correct pre-load. When you tighten the pinion nut do not loosen to loosen the pre-load if it has a crush sleeve. Good luck.