Is replacing the front axles on a 99 4x4 a realistic job for an amateur mechanic with average skills? Or should I pony up the cash and take it to an expert?

what do you need to do exactly, change out a cv shaft or replace the whole front axle.

but either way, yes it isn't hard

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CV joint is the goal but I've heard it's easier to replace the whole axle instead of just the CV joint. True/False?

false. They are both not complicated, can be time consuming if stuff is rusted up and what not but the actual process is easy.

Just make sure you soak everything good in pb blaster or something like that.

I don't know if there are any how to's on here about it but I know there is one on explorerforum that has good pics you can follow

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Lifted and junk

Double Lifted Rangers