With the axle out of the car, it's condition became easy to assess. The suspension pickup points will need to be replaced as they have worn or rusted right through, as you can see from the pictures. I don't think there is much more to say, other than that it's probably for the best that I discovered this now!

With support from Blatchat, I've got the backplates and half shafts off. Next job is removing the diff from the casing.

The credit card has taken a pasting as I've ordered a new 3.6:1 crown wheel and pinion (plus bearings and seals).