99 sport rear diff questions

[blacklab]

I pulled the rear wheels on my new to me 99 sport to check the brakes, now I have some questions. First I noticed some oil seepage around the axle seals, both sides. There is also, what I think is excessive axle end play, almost 1/4 inch on both sides. I have had a lower speed rumbling sound that I thought could be a rear wheel bearing. This vehicle only has just over 200,000 KM's of city driving.
I live out of town so want to get all the parts I may need before I start tearing things apart. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[koda2000]

some axle play is normal and necessary. 1/4" seems a little too much though. i wouldn't replace just the seals or just the axle bearings. do both. usually you do not find a gasket on the diff cover, just black RTV. however, diff gaskets are available if you feel better using one.

if you have an LSD, you'll need to add a friction modifier to the recommended 70w145 full synthetic diff oil (even if it says it has it in it). go to Ford to get their additive or run the risk of noises while cornering.

if you need new parking brake shoes, this would be the ideal time to change them (while the axles are out) it can be done with the axles installed, but it's a major PITA. if you do this, also get new hardware kits for the parking brakes, as they're often rusted solid.

 

[blacklab]

Thanks I thought I may as well do bearings and seals.
doing the park brake pads while the axle is out is a good tip.
Thanks again