95 civic EX axle replacement PLEASE

Ok so here it is. I'm buying a 95 civic 2d EX automatic and will be doing many mods in time but i need to get the basics replaced and driveable. Right now i need to replace the front axles, I need a hand with a brief how to on it barney style if you get what i mean. On top of that i'm kinda wondering peoples ideas it has the stock 1.6 vtech sohc so i'm gonna be looking for an engine swap besides that i'm not sure the brands to use, what series it is series and all that fun stuff. I'm just getting started with cars i'm stationed over in germany in the army we have lift bays and full tool sets available so I have that stuff. Thanks and hit me up with any thoughts on things i should do, i'm looking for increased acceleration and higher top speed, everything is stock except the sound system, gonna have $3k to start with for mods.

unfortunately 'barney' style will be difficult.. you need to get the big axel nut off which usually involves pneumatic air tools. once the axle nut is off unbolt the hub from the lower control arm and swing it up and out of the way, then you will be able to pull the axel from the tranny and reverse the process to install the new one.