'98 Jimmy front axle question

I replaced both front bearing/hub assemblies. Everything sounds and rides nice.

BUT, I noticed that axle threads protrude from axle nut about 1 inch on one side, and only about 1/2 inch on other. The axle actually hits the back of hub cap on one side, allowing cap to rock. The axle does go live in 4WD.

3 hub assembly bolts tightened, both axle (36mm) nuts w/washers torqued to specs....what gives? Why would one side stick out so much more than other.

I'm puzzled and a little scared.

Thanks,
-Dave
DavidEHair@aol.com