Do NOT open the rearend inside a contained space or building.
This is an outdoor only job.
That stuff stinks !!!! do it outside and clean it if you need to bring it inside. You'll never get rid of the smell otheriwse.
believe me you'll kiss a skunk for fresh air after that

 

Ha, thanks kalli...my friend told me that the other day. I've got it rigged up so it's out on the deck, and I put a fan out there to keep the smell away from the door. Thanks for the tips on the gaskets guys.

 

Yep, kalli is right. I spilled some gear oil in my garage one time and my wife couldn't even stand to go out into the garage. Make sure you put some plastic down if you're working on a wood deck or concrete (don't know what yourpatio is built from). It will soak in and be a real biotch to get up.

 

I just did what you are doing now. Got a spare rear end to work on while keeping the car a driver. Removed the axles and diff and changed all the bearings and seals. I had a new set of clutch platesinstalled and the gears shimmed in the trac-lock diff. Cleaned up the housing and painted it with POR-15. Small can of it is plenty. I put 3 coats on and have half the can left over. Got it for $20 at a swapmeet. Since it is pretty watery, the brush strokes disappear. I used a foam brush.

 

overhauling a rear end on the back porch of an apartment... man, you are dedicated!