I'm always willing to grab a sledge hammer and volunteer to clear the mine field for the convenience of my comrades. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shiner.gif" alt="" />

I was mulling over the situation last night and was wondering if having the 28 spline axle shafts turned down to fit the A9 bearings was an option. I think it could be done that way, assuming there's no issues with the seals (they also differ between axle sets). The advantage to that is that I could use the parts already purchased for the job (A9 bearings, seals, new brake drums, shoes and hardware - rear brakes are slightly larger on the '98+ Sporties... And the axle retaining plates have to be swapped too, which would be done at the time of replacing bearings). But that would also make the axles somewhat weaker (does it matter? - how many people have snapped 26 spline axles due to the shaft diameter at the bearing???). However, the cost of machining would likely match, or perhaps exceed the cost of buying a used axle, though I'd still want to replace the bearings and brakes... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif" alt="" /> I still have time to do the research - have to finish the dual batts (been delayed by rain... lots of rain). <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/baby.gif" alt="" /> Yeah, I'll talk to a machinist and report back on the cost and drawbacks of that approach. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/patriot.gif" alt="" />

On that note, how difficult is it to pull the complete axle? Can it be done as a one-man job??? <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/notooth.gif" alt="" />