Remember to check your auger timing up top where they meet in the nuckle. Instructions and diagrams will probably come with your new auger if its a dealer item. Not to sound negative but in my time, when the vert. one needs replacing so does the horiz. good luck. It comes out the bottom easiest, id put bearings on the lower gearcase and reset the gear lash while you got it out. Ive found a cherrry picker with a homemade attachment works the best to lower the gearcase and auger assembly. Its a little heavy dont try it by hand.