Thanks for the replies especially the safety ones, got it down smoothly, and had the wheels well blocked. Took a spin around the block in fwd and highly hopeful the new driveshaft will correct the shuttering issues I noticed.
Checked out the yokes, the rear looks good but the transfer case has a crack starting. Looks like a new rear transfer case yoke should be on order. Seems also like recommended to change the seal while its off and I can do so without draining the fluid. Or...change the fluid while doing this so I know I'm fresh, I'll probably lean towards that.
Collecting threads on the change out, but appreciate any tips, especially pictures.