I was taking my rear down trying to fix a vibration I am having when the diff is off load. I put the axles in to see if they were the right length, (the passenger seems to not go in as far as the drivers side).

I pulled the pumpkin and bolted the axles in. I had about 1 1/8 inches between the axles. I also found there was a whole lot of play when the axles are bolted down. (along with a twisted axle)

Maybe I have the wrong wheel bearings in, or is this normal?

 

 

Looks normal to me. It really depends on the type of end bearing is on the axles. When the center section is installed, the end of the axle rides in the carrier spines so unless the carrier bearing is damage, the end of the axle won't move at all.

If in doubt, replace the axle bearings. You'll have to press off or split the retaining collar to replace the bearing. New bearings do not come with a collar.