OK Here's the next problem for the forum.... I've got about and inch of end play on the drivers side axle. Is this normal? I can grip the splines at the axle end and push and pull the axle in and out....
I agree. I had the same problem not long ago with the same worry. I also was straightened out on this forum. after everything was installed and tight it was fine.
Typically if the axles don't move in and out before the drums are tightened up you have a problem, usually one of the fulcrum plates slips in between the end of the axle and the axle side gear. Something to keep in mind next time you have the axles out.