first, i'd like to say that strange's tech dept was awesome to deal with. i bought this stuff used, so i felt like i was sort of bothering them by calling. but, she (i think tracey was her name) didn't seem to mind answering a few questions for me. i was told that i could pack the bearings a bit...it wouldn't hurt anything. i also asked about using silicone to seal the 2 pieces of aluminum together. i was told it was recommended to do that and to also use a bit on the gaskets that go in front and behind the backing plates. i did it all last night and am FINALLY ready to put this #####$@# thing in the car! i'd take pics....but i'm sure you all know what a rearend looks like, right?
thanks again for the replies.