how much play in the shaft is normal?

[608KEB 811]

I was reading through some of the tranny problems others were having. I am in the process of rebuilding a 1974 B-100 and noticed the rearend shaft has about a 1/4" of play in it. Should I be concerned? I was also wondering if I should not paint the Hydro because of heat build up?

[rmaynard 16,651]

Are you referring to the axles? Each axle can have as much as 1/8" movement in and out, but should have none up or down. I'm not sure about painting the hydro unit, but some of the new "ceramic" engine paints actually have additives that help to transfer heat. I don't see where they would do any harm.

[can whlvr 994]

they painted them when new