willysmjeeps.com

Any rear end specialists out there? With the wheel bearing on the axle and the axle in the housing (spline end in the differential) even with no shims there is too much axle (in and out) play. I'm looking at the schematics and it looks like there is a block or spacer in the middle of the differential carrier that both axles but up against. Does this block move? Does it mean I only need to worry about shims on one side? The jeep had shims on both wheels when I took it apart. Fortunately I didn't need to disassemble the rear differential. The ring and pinion looked almost new, although the case looks to be the standard 44. So I don't have 100% knowledge of what's inside.

Jim

That inner spacer has the ends of the axles butted up against it. You should have a total end float when both sides are together of about .010. The shims stack around the bearing race that protrudes out the axle tube, then the heaver big washer, then the brake backing plate with seal gaskets and slinger. When both sides are bolted up , that's when you check the endfloat. Too many shims equal too much end float, too little shims, you won't be able to turn the axles. John

Got it. Thanks so much for the quick reply!