A very old thread here. I HAVE done mine since 2012. Not easy but I only disconnected the shocks to lower the axle a bit more. Anyway sounds like potentially interesting info there, rotating on one oil pump bolt. Thanks!

 

There is NO logic there other than yes, you can screw it up. She should get back to her quilting.

 

I watched a video that Bleepin Jeep posted on YouTube. It shows him completely removing the axle from under the jeep. Otherwise you'll have issues getting the pan off and the rear main seal out. I'm about to change my oil pan gasket and rear main seal as well and would like to do it without removing the axle, but that doesn't look like that's going to happen. You will also need to remove the starter when you go to put the oil pan back on. That way you keep the gasket clean and get a good seat.

 

Keep searching, there is plenty of documentation on removing the oil pan without completely removing the front axle housing. Especially if it's lifted... I'm familiar with the video you're talking about and he had the axle out because he was installing new steering and needed to fab his axle, it was just good timing to do the RMS while it was out but not necessary.

 

You just take off the oil pump there is just two bolts and they are easy to get to and the pan will come right out. It's a good time to replace the pump if your oil pressure is low. EDIT : You have to position the pan back in and then put the pump back on. Just rest the pan on some wood blocks so you don,t have to wrestle with it while installing.