So I'll tell you this. 249 Drivetrain was the highest quote of the bunch. Just his labor alone was $3500. I spent 30 minutes on the phone with him and maybe talked for a total of 2 minutes. The more he talked the higher the quote got. There were things that I "needed" and since he was going to be in there "I might as well do them now as they probably currently need to be replaced or will need replacing shortly", as he told me. Just a heads up.
Yes, I watched a bunch of YT videos, with the best ones being from BFH. His videos are amazing "tutorials" on how to do gear changes on Jeeps. He's a member here, hosejockey is his handle if I recall correctly. After doing a lot of research and video watching, I decided I could do it myself. I'm comfortable turning wrenches, however gear work (axles, transmission, etc.) always scared me. As for decades I was told, "you need to leave that to the professionals." Since the Jeep is not my primary vehicle I figured I'd give it a try. Worse case scenario it all goes south and I swallow my pride and take it to a shop. As mentioned, I'm at mile 436 now of 500 for the break in. All seems well. No strange noise, the Jeep drives the same, and cruises down the HWY @ 70mph with ease. But who knows, 1,000 miles from now something may go wrong. If it does, I'd feel completely comfortable getting back in there and learning from my mistake(s). If you enjoy turning wrenches, a good challenge, and its not your DD. Give it a shot.