My 2000 Dodge Ram 1500 truck with 9 1/4 ( 5.2 liter, automatic, 4X4) has a lot of end play in the rear axle and knocking over small road irregulaties at low speed. I measured the movement the best I could without professional equipment to be about .035 when you raise the axle off the ground and push in and out on the wheel. I have the service manual, although there is no spec for this, however it does comment about "low speed knock." It suggests replacing the axle thrust washer. Chilton's manual suggests no more than .010. The Dodge manual speaks of play at the side gear and recommends using different size side gear thrust washers to get the proper play (.005). The axle was rebuilt by the dealer due to a defective ring and pinion.
What I wonder is if the side gear washer is too small, and if that would affect the amount of end play at the wheels. If anyone could advise on this it would be greatly appreciated. No luck at the dealer, or other dealers.