On the subject of getting the axle out. I found that a good gear puller, large enough to fie around the steering knuckle, works just great. On getting it back in, I use a three pound hammer and a friend with the same so that the alignment stays right and the shaft doesn't bind on the bearings. It's a hassle, but worht the cost savings. I can change an axle in about an hour on my 88 GL from start to finnish.