ford 8 inch axle worth rebuilding?

So the rear axle on my 1963 fairlane is making bad noises. I haven't opened it up yet. The noise sounds like pieces of axle insides being thrown around. The car still moves forward and reverse. Thinking worse case scenario is ring and pinion is shot.

Just wondering. Is a ford 8 inch axle worth rebuilding?

The cars use is cruising with occasional "spirited" rides.

 

They are more costly to rebuild than to rebuild a 9", but not as much as getting a new rear end. Me personally, tear it down, see what needs to be done, the 8" is a good rear.

 

You likely can find a good used 3rd member for a reasonable price. Not too difficult to change.