I am hoping to swap the gears and carrier in my brother's 74 Duster soon. I am also going to be switching to factory 6 leaf rear springs.

Since I will have the rear axle loose anyway, I was wondering if it is easier to swap the gears and carrier with the axle installed or loose. Any input and advice appreciated.

The swap can be done outside the car...but once you get to the point of making some adjustments, and especially when it comes time to torque the pinion crush sleeve properly...you'll want to have it bolted up.

-D.Idiot

Thanks Rob. I think I will be lazy and leave the axle in place. That way I don't have to bleed the brakes.