I’m seeking advice on an upcoming Truetrac installation in the front differential of my 2016 Jeep Wrangler (81,000 miles on the odometer). I initially planned to reuse the ring and pinion, but only install new bearings on the Truetrac (pinion gear would remain in place). However, the mechanic advised me that if I were to installing the Truetrac, and already that deep into the differential, it would make sense to replace the pinion bearings and pinion seal as well.

1. If pulling the pinion to replace the bearings and seal is indeed the best course of action, would using used gears complicate the gear setup?
2. If I use the old ring and pinion, is a break-in procedure needed?
3. What is the break-in procedure when only the front axle has had ring and pinion work done? I believe that when the Jeep is in 2WD, the unit bearings, along with the ring gear and pinion, are turning, but they are not under any significant load. Therefore, wouldn’t it be possible to drive the Jeep as usual after the installation, with the only concern being the front differential break-in when 4WD is engaged?

The 81,000 miles traveled mentioned is only for the rear differential. The front differential would have approximately 25% of that mileage. Considering this, I’m wondering if I should keep the ring and pinion. If the best outcome would be achieved by installing a new ring and pinion too then I do have the budget for this.