Update on the project, the holidays are finally over and I'm just getting over the flu.
Spent the day cleaning and installing the bevel gear shaft. Took a bit of time to get the bearings preloaded to the proper spec. Then we installed the bevel gear and we're planing on installing the trans so could adjust the lash but it's now on hold because we opted to change out one more bearing in the back of the trans.
Whoever installed the trans last didn't install the sprayers so the upper bearings were running dry. We thought we couldn't get to the bearing race pins without tearing the trans apart but we located the pins on the outside today.
Also found the left side outer (driving the final gear) bearing cage had the bearing dowl sheared off and the bearing was spinning in the cage. So we ordered a new cage and all new bearings for both sides.
The left gear taper spline also looks to be in poor shape due to the hub running loose so we're looking at replacing it. Trying to track down a local one but we found new ones for 550+shipping.
Overall we are down to replacing almost everything in the bevel gear compartment besides the steering clutches and drums.
Don't mind the green primer, it's still a cat I swear lol.