8 3/4 questions

Sounds like you've got a bad one, I wouldn't put it in.

By your question, I don't understand what you're trying to do. More info please, maybe you can save some money, or at least get what you need the first time around.

Are you sure they didn't beat the axles going in ? How about a picture of the pumpkin and axles. Which pumpkin do you have ? Suregrip ? Ratio ? Axle bearing type?

Since you're new at this, you could have it fixed and still not have what you want or really need. This can run into big money before you're done, if you just throw money at it.

Take some time and rewrite your information and questions.