Sounds like a likely chain of events.

Check the splines on the end of the axle shaft and hope that the splines in the side gear are also OK.
Biggest concern may be the bearing seats and surfaces on the spindle, if they are not damaged you should be just fine replacing bearings and a new lock/tab washer. Probably need a new seal too.

Grigg

•1951 GMC 250 in the Project Journals
•1948 Chevrolet 6400 - Detroit Diesel 4-53T - Roadranger 10 speed overdrive - 4 wheel disc brakes
•1952 Chevrolet 3800 pickup
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"First, get a clear notion of what you desire to accomplish, and then in all probability you will succeed in doing it..." -Henry Maudslay-