Yeah, when I got mine back from the shop I drove over to my buddy's house (lilmule) and told him over the phone to look out the window as I drove by while I had it in 4-low. His comment was "that's not bad", to which I replied "yeah...I'm in 5th gear!"

After that I showed him 1st gear. He was quite impressed. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

I had the shop do it because I'm not experienced at tranny's, t-cases, and the like. I can turn a wrench, but there's something to be said about having a professional do it when you're going to be out in the middle of nowhere. I'd rather not find my rig stranded because I chose to save a buck and screwed up something critical because of my lack of experience with some things. I'll turn a wrench on my other vehicles only because I know I can get them back home by myself. Sure, I can still break down on the trail, but having a pro do it is more of an insurance policy.

All the bearings, seals, etc were replaced because it's just a safe choice. I don't know the history of the first 114,000 miles on my Montero, so no telling. Just prudent to do so if it's all torn open.