8.75" 2pc Side Gear Axle Spline Engagement?

Well I took it out today and have cut, welded and reinstalled and have it on tires.

I measured so the axles touch the cross shaft with retainer against housing end flange, the thickness of the backing plate (.1045") will be the clearance between axle end and cross shaft.

Much happier now and if it breaks I get a housing for my car and will build a bigger one for my son.