Different length rear axle shaft threads on either side?

[Banditorama]

I see no mention of either of the axle keys being installed here!

If not maybe the axles on both sides have been spinning inside hub tapers.


In that case the tapers on both axles and both hubs could be worn!

Thankfully, they were in place on both sides. They seemed to be in fine shape, but I've got new ones on the way anyways along with all the proper hardware and Les Andrew's Red Book.

 

[Ed in Maine]

I would try to make the repair with a combination of things as follows:
Install another drum and try it.
Use one or two shims on the taper. I had a similar problem and the shims moved the drum
back away from the backing plates.
Use a couple of washers to get the cotter pin at the hole. Ed

 

[katy]

I see no mention of either of the axle keys being installed here!
If not maybe the axles on both sides have been spinning inside hub tapers.

If the axles "spin" inside the hub tapers one won't go very far.

 

[redmodelt]

If the drums/brakes don't rub, there is no need for any shims. You should never use more than one shim per side. If one is not enough, make a thicker one, you have the pattern.

 

[Charlie Stephens]

If I had run a Model A rear end with a loose axle nut I would take it apart and have the axles magna fluxed and/or die penetrant inspected for cracks. A small one will grow in time. If the axle fails the wheel with the drum will come off and destroy the fender when it does. The wheel will roll down the highway potentially doing more damage (like hitting a full school bus).

Charlie Stephens