If it has not been done, drill, tap and install grease fitting in both axle housings. Install the seals so the rubber lip is facing outwards. This will allow the grease to exit and not push the seals out. Be sure to free the yoke from the long shaft on the left side. The yoke should float on the shaft and key. This will make assy easier and also set the yokes at the right distance in case changing parts changes the distance between the two axles.
Since the axle is out there is no better time to change the spring. It is much more difficult once the axle is in.
Check the cross shaft ujoints for play and replace as needed. If the bearing caps are loose in the jokes, replace the yokes. NH has complete ujoint assy s which is the most cost effective way to go if a yoke is bad. If just replacing a single yoke on an assy or ujoint on the long shaft, take the old yoke and ujoint along since NH used two different suppliers and the yokes are different sizes.
