Cubby, again, YIKES!!!
I agree with your synopsis given the model of truck.. Finding a complete donor rear is gonna be WAY cheaper and easier than rebuilding what you have.
That said, I've got to think 1 ton axles are in high demand and probably an overkill (massive) for your 1/2 ton suspension.
I know you weren't soliciting opinions when you posted this tread, but I would personally just try to get it back to stock and running right. In my experience, rear ends out of the bone yard are $175-300..... If $300 has you up and running again with the correct ratio, I say do it! If you want a more aggressive limited slip, consider tossing a Richmond Powertrax in the carrier (very, VERY easy installation and no gear setup required). I have a Powertrax in my (please hold your laughter down as I don't want you to disturb your neighbors) '83 AMC Eagle Wagon and it's a monster when you want to haul the mail. When just driving around it's as tame as a new born kitten. It only has a slight "click-click" sound when cornering. If you want to to pull, it's as good as spool.
All that said, WOW and YIKES again!!! The D35 in my TJ has been noisy for the last 20,000 miles and I have a brand new (from Dana... For $25... LUCKY!!) D35 to swap in to it.. I'm thinking that it's time to get that done!!!
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