1956, rear axle, drivers side loose

[Steve Springer]

1956 rear axle loose. Axle moving in and out approximately one inch. Tire rubs skirt on turn. New bearings and seals installed.

 

[74 Harley]

The retainer that holds the outer bearing in place has slipped. Either it's a cheap bearing set or you may have wear on axle shaft. It will have to come out immediately and have the shaft mic'ed.

 

[paul5456]

I don't know for sure, but the 55 and 56 rears may have a locking device in the middle to hold the axle in place. These were different from the 57 rear axle, which didn't have any such device

 

[74 Harley]

The Dana 44 rear axle doesn't use a c clip. None that I have ever seen. I believe G.M. came up with that idea in the '60's.