I've got 2 kids. Put the next size up car seat in there before you make you decision. Infant seats fit with plenty of room but 2 of the big toddler ones gets really crowded. My front seats just barely touch both toddler seats when sitting in my normal position.
You might be surprised just how soft the axle shaft is. I've repaired several of these on various fords for inexperienced techs fresh off the lube rack. These threads usually clean up pretty quick.
Correct. They work on damaged or dirty threads. It does take a little longer but you don't risk starting the die crooked and making it worse. Napa usually has the in stock...
Yep that's the one. Some quality extractors, my snap-on impact screwdriver and a little heat has rarely failed me. Great for knocking stuff loose and rarely slips.
I would suggest removing the tail light to try and heat the nuts from behind. This will soften any loktite. I would then use an impact screwdriver to attempt removal of the bolts while still hot.
I pulled up the instructions and torque spec for that 3/8 bolt is 30 ft lbs not 130. Using a 9/16 socket is not a 9/16 bolt... The did write it in a confusing way.
Does it have the old orange coolant in it? Orange was bad about evaporation.
Edit. I woul just watch it. If it stays at the minimum line I wouldn't worry about it.