BW QT output shaft slop

[sgtpoliteness]

So, I was replacing the rear output seal on the QT for the 3rd or 4th time the other day and noticed that with the yoke unbolted
you can push and pull (like, in and out) on the output shaft an inch or two. Stupid me didn't peak in to look at the annular bearing. It's got a part time kit in it. Is this normal for those? My dead stock QT doesn't do that at all. With the yoke bolted on it doesn't move at all. There's no side-to-side movement, just in and out.

I'm wondering if this is the source for my continued issues with that output seal.

Thanks, guys!

[carnuck]

missing snap ring?

[sgtpoliteness]

That's a good idea...I'm going to try to pull off the yoke tomorrow and take a look. I've been doing all my wiring clean up from the TBI install the last few days.

Also replaced both left front and right front inner and outer wheel bearings last week. Yuck. What a mess. The bearings weren't awful, but the grease was WELL passed its 'use by' date for sure. Cleaned up the Warn hubs too. Lots of dirt in them.