reddingcruiser
Practicing for retirement
Assuming it's a stock, open diff (or not), the axle shafts engage the side gears which sends the rotation of the ring and pinion out to the wheels. It seems the general consensus is your axle splines are twisted or otherwise bound up in the side gear. I would be surprised if an 8mm bolt will be enough to do the job. It's unusual for the twist to occur inboard of the side gear, but if twist is severe enough there may be too much pressure on the splines for them to slide in or out.
If drilling and tapping for a bolt doesn't work you may end up welding on something more substantial for a better bite, and some hydraulic help. Worst case will require some invasive surgery.
If drilling and tapping for a bolt doesn't work you may end up welding on something more substantial for a better bite, and some hydraulic help. Worst case will require some invasive surgery.