96 850 glt na automatic. I'm replacing blown tranny with a used 98 from boneyard. After removing both axles from 96 there is an unobstructed passway from the left output to right output in the tranny. But on the 98 tranny sitting on my workbench there is an octagon post in the middle of the passway. I measured the right side axle spline and there is no way it will fit all the way in (I don't want to try putting it in and risk mashing something at this point). I checked online venders and axles for 96 are the same for 98. Question,
What is this "post" in the 98 tranny??? Does it have to do with a gear the tranny is in??? I'm in a funk!!

 

Ok, everyone have a good laugh !! (I'm having a great one!). All is well except for my embarrASSment. I went out an tried the axle and it fit like a glove even though I expected it to be 3/4" to long. It seems the 1" wide tape measure I used got hung up in a circlip groove in the tranny ! Hey, that's what happens at 1 am. This was a good one for me but I know I must have others that could top it !!! Good night.