Bumpstop saga continued… I was able to resolve the bump stop issue on the front. Since I broke a tap in the spring perch I just clocked the bump stops 90 degrees in the same location and tapped new holes. After the front bumps were in and the axle reassembled, I moved to the back axle. The replacement parking brake plate kits are absolutely the bomb. Yes, it is a more expensive option for updating your rear emergency brake shoes, springs, and hold down clips, but having the ability to remove a backing plate and stick a new one in place is simple and clean. Once the backing plates were in place I was able to slide the axle shafts into the tube and on into the carrier. A trick I use to help balance the axle shaft in order to insert into the center of the carrier opening is to clamp an adjustable wrench on the wheel flange and use the wrench for leverage while supporting the bottom of the flange with your other hand. This allows your support hand to act as a fulcrum and the wrench as the lever making the spline end of the axle not seem as long and heavy. It is best not to bump the axle shaft end into the edge of the carrier during install. While I was cleaning up the back end I took some time to redo the wire loom on the back wheel speed sensors. It was really beat up and dirty, plus it had several tree type zip ties that were no longer used because of the lift height and pull on the loom. Next is bolt snugging and putting the Jeep back on its own weight and off the jack stands so I can put the engine back in. Stay tuned!
