A few questions about the Slip yoke, U-joints, and rear pinion seal

[ga_sport4X4]

For the record, this is my first time fiddling with these parts on my X. I've looked around the boards and read the sections within the Hayne's manual, but I still have several questions for those of you that have the knowledge.
'98, 4x4, 4.10 limited slip, V6 SOHC


Universal questions:
1. Any specail tools required?
2. Is it absolutely necessary to have the car off the ground so I can spin the rear tires in order to re-align the marks I make on the driveshaft.
3. Should i buy a torque wrench to make sure the specified torque requirements are met? (Prolly a dumb question)

Slip Yoke:
1. Lithium grease right?

Rear pinion seal:
1. How much diff. fluid is going to leak out when i remove the seal.
2. Any way to measure the amount of diff. fluid?
3. A crush sleeve has been mentioned in a previous post and by the mechanic who flushed my tranny. What is it and should it be replaced as well?

Also, any tips you veterans wish to share on the above will be greatly appreciated.

 

[mrboyle]

I'll answer your questions in order.

U-Joint
1. Tools: 12pt. 12mm box end wrench, needle nose pliers, drift punch, BFH , and socket set.
2. No it's not. As long as the vehicle doesn't move with the drive shaft out.
3. You don't need to worry about the torque specs, just tighten the bolts as tight as you can.

Slip-yolk
1. Any grease will work

Pinnion Seal
1. You will loose very little.
2. After you replace the seal pull the fill plug and check the level of the gear oil. If its low add some.
3. This is where you need that torque wrench (you can rent one if necessary). Once the seal is replaced and you reinstall the yolk, torque it to spec. You shouldn't need to worry about anything else.

 

[ga_sport4X4]

Thanks

I'm going to Raleigh this weekend, but i'm going to put the following weekend to use on my truck. Thanks again for the help.