Shaft adjustment on rear axle of m38a1

[mel gabel]

I am referring to a US publication (a reproduction - "Service Manual" for the M38A1 from Original Reproductions in Upland, Calf.) which shows the shims between the the axle housing and the bearing retainer, which is behind the brake backing plate. The manual says to add or remove shims to provide .003 to .007 inch end play in the axle shaft. With the wheel hub and brake drum removed, it says to test the end play by moving the shaft in and out. The end play should be just perceptible.

I've never done this, so I don't know how difficult it is, but that's what the manual says to do.