i have literally been searching for over an hour for a write up on removing and replacing the front differential on an XJ. can anyone link me one? much appreciated

 

Disconnect brakes, driveshaft, control arms, track bar, diff vent. Drop diff then put the other in the opposite way
Or do you mean just gears

 

no the whole diff like you said. i had a shock mount go and the shop that replaced it DESTROYED my front diff. had another shop refer to the job and "building a death trap". so i dont want anyone else touching it. i was planning on doing shocks,springs and rear leafs myself and was got curious as to whether or not i could do the diff. based on what you said seems like il be fine. thank you

 

Pretty much sums it up, don't forget to disconnect the shocks from the axle.