Saylor,

Is that the splines from your front drive shaft in the first pic? Not sure I would run mine without the boot over it.

I dont remember having much mess from draining the tranny when I did it. Those fill plug were really torqued on there though (was doing pullups with a 24" breaker bar). That was the worst part.

--Dave

1999 Rodeo LS 3.2 4x4 5 Speed
32x11.50-15 BFG T/A KO on US Wheel 94 series
3" Lift - Rancho 9000x
Rear No-Slip Locker
Flowmaster 50 series SUV 2.25"

There is a very fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness." - Dave Barry