I've done some searching and found that when replacing the gears the pinion spacing needs to be checked and redone for proper gear alignment. I am only replacing the bearings on both the pinion gear and the center carrier in the rear end. Does anybody know if I will need to do all the same steps or will reusing the current shims give me the proper alignment?

Thanks in advance!

 

You will need to follow all the set up steps. you should get new shims, and you will also replace the crush sleeve. you will want to double check your pattern. bad pattern can cause whine or premature gear wear.