@ALB posted:It's said that used axles (swing as well as irs) should always go back on the same side, as you don't want to be stressing them the opposite of the way they were before. That said, I've never heard of anyone (other than drag racers) breaking them. As for the ridge on stock irs axles- something in a wee, foggy corner of my brain is saying it goes to the outside, but don't take that as gospel. I know who to ask and if I remember I'll call him later. Al
I always put CV joints back where I got them-- orientation, etc.
... but this may be more due to being a bit OCD, as the balls almost always end up all over the parts washer (when I take the joints apart to inspect for wear) and go back in no certain order, so none of my effort makes any difference.
This is metaphorical is a lot of ways.