[Richard2112]

I am considering rebuilding an HO72 in my '70 one ton or swapping a 14bff. I would prefer to rebuild the HO72 since it has a reputation for being one tuff system so making it new again should mean that I'll never have to do it again.

I do not know if the HO has a ball bearing or tapered at the pinion and I'm not certain how to verify that before ordering a pinion bearing.

From what I have seen though, the parts dealers are sure the HO72 parts are made of gold.

So I have a couple questions.

First, is it worth it to rebuild the HO72 and is there any one place to get all the parts (including R&P)---Don't want to order some parts then discover the others are no longer available

Is there a way to verify the pinion bearing (ball or taper) without a complete disassemble?

My truck is a cab/chassis model w/leafs, which if I am not mistaken, means that if I go with a 14bff, I would have to get a short setup as opposed to the pick-up truck axle. Can the 14 bolt swap be done without a bunch of cutting/welding or parts interchange?