Mike:

Nope, you should be fine in 2wd, that's how I've done mine.

Putting the axles back in: Very carefully! Soak the tip and shoulders of the axle stub in gear oil or grease. Guide it in there without touching the axle tube (near impossible, I know). I slid a narrow, clean strip of metal into the bottom of the tube to protect the axle from picking up dirt. If it all goes well that axle seal won't leak for you when you go for your first drive.

Much joy to be had if that seal decides to leak: you got a 50/50 chance of having to pull it all apart again, getting a special tool for the seal and needing two people to put the new one in.

I put greaseable U-joints in mine, Mike and then that way I never have to worry about pulling this horse's-ass, straight-axle-crap apart again. You have to put the needle type zerk in because a normal zerk will not clear the knuckle.

I've had mine apart too many times to have any love for a straight-axle truck. Mechanic's steady wage these stupid things.

Bet you're excited now!!!!!!!!!