This is a five-star thread. Very valuable information here.
For future reference, what are the "best practices" for dealing with these old banjo rear-ends? What I've gleaned from this the preceding posts are as follows:
1) When rebuilding one of these axle assemblies use Ford-script shafts whenever possible.
2) Before assembly make certain to have the tapered ends mangafluxed to check for cracks.
3) Pay careful attention to the fit between the brake drum, roller bearing and axle housing race.
4) Make certain your axle nuts are torqued down correctly; never rely on the key way to transmit driving torque!!!
5) Treat this old-school technology with respect. Avoid side-stepping the clutch or doing burnouts (DUH!).
6) The addition of brake-drum retainers is recommended should an axle shaft snap.