The sanding boat has sailed already
And you are correct, not the right finish. I could wire wheel the whole thing and that would take it back to a natural metal look somewhat.
Too bad it won't fit in my cabinet ... fine glass bead would get it looking natural again, then maybe pickle it in some mild acid to darken it up.
I'm guessing I would indicate off the bearing caps to determine run-out at the yokes?
I'm using the original driveshaft, original trans and rear end .... never vibrated in the past so I assume there are no major problems, but it would be nice to have it clocked the way it came from the factory.