I am underway on my first build. Bought a 8.8 rear end for my truck for $100. It's pretty rusty. Just wondering what is the best method for prepping the housing for paint. I think having the housing blasted would be best. The question is, should I completely empty the housing, or can I get by with just removing the brakes and axles? If I leave the pumpkin loaded, how would you protect it from getting blasting media inside it? Thanks for the input.
If the vehicle is not a show car, dont blast it. Wire brush, sand, wash with wax and grease remover, dry, rattle can prime, rattle can color.
Don nailed it ... don't blast it, don't empty it, just clean her up. Knock off any heavy rust with slot screwdriver, go at it with a wire brush (either by hand or with a wire wheel in a grinder) etc. Put a new pinion seal and axle seals only if it needs any. Also a good idea to change the fluid.
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