Should stub axle have any play ?!

[speedfreak99]

The stub axle ( gen lll ) coming out from the diff housing which the halfshafts slide onto on the passenger side has moved about an 1/8 of an inch outward . I can see the old line where it used to be from the old mark the housing seal made on it. Just had diff rebuilt and wondering if there is supposed to be any play or lateral movement in the stub axle ? Should I be concerned something has worked loose ? I tried to push/pull on it and very very little movement exists but it must have moved like i mentioned it sticks out and extra 1/8 " from the housing than the other side. Any thoughts be appreciated thx.

 

[Sonoman]

I would think in normal circumstances the C-clip retaining ring on the splined part of the axle would prevent this kind of movement. An 1/8" isn't much but it may indicate the retaining ring is missing or damaged (or somehow never snapped in place). Might want to call a specialist such as Unitrax and get an expert opinion.

 

[speedfreak99]

Good advice. Called unitrax . Tech mentioned to remove halfshaft , tap stub axle back in and remove c-clip on end of stub to prevent halfshaft from pulling on stub if c-clip binds up. I will update after I try this.