When you say dripping out of the bottom of the seal do you mean the gasket between the third member and housing?
I had a leak that I thought was the gasket and it ended up being the fluid was wicking around one of the four bottom studs that are under the fluid level seeping around the knurl that retains them
I had that third member out three or four times before finding that, it took some Mopar brand grey transfer case and rear end sealer on the knurls to fix it It would leak around the knurl ands leak out behind the flat washer and nut and look like it was leaking from the gasket
Good luck, let us know what you find and do to fix it, you can fix it

Had this same leak rear end of our 300 B. Pulled each lower stud, slathered with silicone, somewhat wary if would do the job because of inability to get a clean dry surface. However has so far done the job. If had not, would do again using PTFE/Teflon tape.

Your right, I was wrong.

Been a while since I have swapped gears on a 8 3/4" rear and yea it would be tough to pull the factory studs to install longer ones and not worth it. I was thinking it used bolts like the last rear I did. I have done more 9" and truck rears than I have 8 3/4 lately.

I don't think the OP is confused as he just got done doing this so he is more in tune with the job right now than any of us right at the moment.

I do remember needing to have the car up high so I could muscle that 3rd member from my chest into the car more than once years ago.

Same with 4 speeds on my chest first then into the bell housing.
I have done a lot work at home years ago where I don't have a trans jack.

I still have few 8 3/4 laying around.

Not to highjack the thread but where did you get that Carrier box?

Me likey alot.

I think mine are made by Jaz fuel cells? I bet several people make them now, but I am pretty sure Jaz was the first to make them.

Actually they came with new 9.5" rear ends I bought over the years from Mark Williams. I have bought too many from them. Racing top alcohol dragster you go through some rear ends.

I agree, my mistake!

15 years ago I would have just lifted it and it was in. The problem is that as we get older we/I don't have the arm strength. I feel for you. I was lucky last time, a younger guy lifted it in for me. I probably will not R&R another one in this life. I'm now 75

MaMopar gave up on gaskets 25 years ago. Order one from the dealer and you get a tube of gear-lube-resistant RTV. Way to go. ONLY way to go!

Rick

Never used a gasket. Gear lube resistant sealer.