I am replacing the open diff with the LSD today. My question is, do I have to disconnect all the brake stuff to get the axle out just far enough to get the diff out? Or can I leave some stuff intact so I don't have to re do the brakes again?

 

It is rear drum brakes not disk

 

it all has to come out. no way to pull the axles with all that crap on there. there should be a thread in the archives regarding this exact same thing. and it has lots of pics too : p

 

Unfortunately yes you need to disconnect the brake lines and re-bleed the system when you're all done. There isn't enough play in them to move the axles far enough.