Thanks for info & PN's, WW.
I'm now remembering engaging an issue on the left side when swapping the front ends. Solution: ignore one bolt
In a sea of mounting bolts, it didn't seem like a super-critical fastener.
I recall a thread lamenting that any lift over 2" dramatically accelerated CV demise. My OME lift is 2.5", so I'd like to take all possible measures to enhance longevity.
Another liability, the ubiquitous potholes here in Baja absolutely destroy running gear (especially night driving, which removes the ally of hole-dodging). Daily-driving the gauntlet of concrete "baches" is brutal; less dust than off-road racing, but the blunt-force impact inflicted by exiting a concrete hole is far less forgiving than dirt, mud, sand & stones. The average trip across town tests all components (& creatures).
Combining lift/pothole-related concerns with your info, I'm wondering if it's advisable to replace the CV's with the longest possible for each side. In this case, installing the longer 3.7-spec LEFT CV, and the longer CRD-spec RIGHT CV.
The idea of machining [reducing] the inner CV cup is more work than it's worth. Pertinent thread:
viewtopic.php?f=3&t=40739
Update- No luck sourcing lift-happy shafts from either JBA nor JE REEL; just ordered Right CRD axle @ ID. Reman@$100 vs OEM @ $375, opted reman, particularly given 1st-time R&R of 3.7 frontend in CRD = potential 'surprises' @ install.
Going to attempt install of 3.7-shaft @ Left.
Will report results.
keys: replacing CV joint joints half-shaft lift