I have a 1998 F 150, 127,000 with a rear-end howl and a slight coast down grinding noise. I founded the same S 862 B rear-end with 32,000 for $645.00.

What steps are involved with this change over?

 

Do you mean the whole axle assembly? If that is the case all you need do is lift the truck and support it, remove the old axle and install the new one. I would also change the diff fluid in the new one.

JMC

 

If you have plans to exchange a rear end and you don't know the steps, I would find some friends or family with more experience to help you out. You can keep things safe, end up with a proper installation, and bond with the guys.