I noticed a leak coming from the drum so i thought maybe the wheel cylinder went out but when I took it apartthe fluid was from the axle. When i put it back together i was almost home ( 5 mins away from where i was), it made a loud noise and started smoking.. it was on fire!! put water on it and now im thinking i need axle. how much of a job is that going to be? any help is greatly appreciated...

Saw this post today. Have you done this job yet?

Yes I have... rear axel bearings wore then the gear fluid leaked into drum and sparked. Cost a lot for the fluid, but the axel saver bearings were not too much...