hey guys and gals just wondering if i will need a case spreader or not. i did my truck with a Dana 44 front and Chrysler 9.25 rear without one but if i need one ill fab up one. I've heard that ill save time with one but i just am wondering some first hand experiences if i will or not. thanks in advance

 

I was wondering too. I did my TJ with a D30 / D35 without a spreader fairly easy. I'm debating doing my JK myself since I have more time than money. Hopefully someone with some experience will chime in.

 

You will definately save time. If it's your first time, you'll save even more time, since you'll likely be taking the carrier out a few more times and than experienced installer.

The time is one aspect, but don't under estimate fatigue. Getting the carrier into the housing is a chore. You gotta hold the 40 lb carrier, carrier bearing races and shims all at the same time trying to get it into a spot that's too small for the total of them. That's where the spreader comes in big time. It makes the 'spot' bigger than the total of them. The real PIA is when you have to use really thin shims to get the backlash set. Of course you'll put them in between thicker shims but you still have to drive them into the too small spot.

I had my carrier in and out about 7 time before I got a good pattern. If I were to do it again, I'd save myself the headache and get one. Now if I had plenty of time and could do this over the course of a couple of days I might not, but w/o a doubt, it'll make the process easier.

 

what RCJeeper said.
I did mine without one...but it would have been easier with one...I won't buy one though if I do it again

 

unless you're gettin paid to do it, don't bother

 

Unless your going to do this more than just a few times, i would not get one.