1948 Chevy rear end

[BUGTHUG]

I have a 1948 original car, and plan on keeping it that way as much as possible. I know very little about this style of setup.
I want to replace the bearings and freshen it all up so it will last another 75 years. What information is out there for getting parts and whats no longer available? It has the rear springs have a metal clad covering, what is the best way to check to see if they are still good and the rubber needs replaced cause they are about gone and one end is wollard out. Should I remove the metal cladding and leave them off in the future?
The car is pretty rare so keeping it original I feel is the most justified thing to preserve the auto.
How hard is removing the axles? will it need to be professional assembled,? does the axle gaps need to have a dial indicator used to put it back together.
Any break down pictures to see all the components?

[Advanced Design]

Just in case someone here doesn't jump in with information you can begin research here...http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com.

There are a number of reference and repair manuals plus links to forums that might be more applicable for this car.

Looks like a really solid one. Good luck!

[Boog]

Dang that's a long one. Hearse? I believe the metal covering was to keep them greased and keep dirt out.

[Boog]

Double post