Do I need to pull the spindle to remove the halfshafts or will they flex enough to get them past the studs on the diff? I tried pulling them tonight and they really didn't seem to want to clear the studs. Any tips?

If I have to remove the spindle should I start with the upper or the lower arm? Tips?

Also, the Haynes says I need to "pull the side gear shafts from the differential with a slide hammer and adaptor plate." Is this really necessary or is there a workaround?

Thanks folks.

Joa
87 4Runner soon to be getting 5.29s and limited slip