I purchased a 8 3/4 housing which measured 53 1/4 flange to flange. I came across an a-body sbp axles which were in a stock a-body housing measuring 52 5/8. The question is since there is about 5/8 difference in the length of housing which should equate to about 5/16 short on each axle. Will it work without any problems. I spoke with a local rear end shop who stated no problem. Would appreciate any comments. Oh by the way the stock a-body housing was not for sale before anyone asked.

Put the axles in the housing without the 3rd member. Measure the distance between the ends of the axles. Compare that measurement with the thickness of the floating block on the differential cross pin.

With the factory type tapered axle bearings the ends of the axle bear on the floating block in the 3rd member as the tapered bearings can only handle thrust in one direction. The opposite side axle bearing takes thrust in the other direction. If the axles cannot bear against the floating block the axles will move inward. I predict bearing failure and metal shavings inside the brake drum. Green bearings take thrust in both directions so axle length is not as critical, but you still want good spline engagement in the side gears.

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Joshua