gears

[LONGHAIR]

The spider gear install that started this is a quick, easy thing that can be done w/o even removing the carrier from the housing.....a ring and pinion swap is a whole different program. Plus, like Keith said, you gotta do the front too.

I always recommend against a novice doing this. A lot of patience and careful measuring is required and "close" is not good enough, it has to be exact. If the pattern is off, even slightly, it will be noisy and wear prematurely.

BTW, your list of tools is missing a few things. You also need a press and the appropriate pullers to remove/install the bearings and some way to measure the pinion depth. The pinion bearing will need to be removed and re-installed at few times to get the shim right. A torque wrench will be needed too.
Just to add to the fun, the front also throws in the challenge of removing the spindles from the knuckles. There is nifty little puller for that. While the spindles are off, don't forget about the bearings inside of them .....yes another tool there. Look at the axle joints while it is apart too, they get stiff over time and most are not grease-able.

All in all, it's better to pay a pro and get the peace of mind that comes with the warranty.
Either way, be sure to use a good synthetic lube and with gears that low, be sure to break them in. The first trip should be no more than a mile, then let it fully cool. You will be amazed at how hot it will get that quickly. Second trip can be 5 miles or so, cooling again. One more time at 15-20 miles and cool....after that, you are good to go.