F8 front axle shims

[david moore]

Is anyone familiar with the type of shim shown in the photo attached? As I removed the front axle of my Cab 12 F8, a shim like this fell out from where the axle attaches to the springs at the U-bolts. Although its not clear in the photo, the figures 1 3/4 are stamped in the circle. On the other side was a similar shim that had almost crumbled with rust - this one read 1/2 (I think).

Which way round should they go i.e. wedge forward or wedge aft? What is their purpose?

David
Kingston Ont