Front Drive Shaft

I am trying to install a used front drive shaft on my 03 Sport. But the 6 bolts on the transfer case side will not tighten up all the way. I am left with a 1/16
inch gap. I am using new bolts and new washers/spacers. Is it simply dirt on the internal threads, or is there a spacer between the shaft and the yolk that I am missing? I am using the shorter bolts at this location.

Jason

No, there isn't a spacer. Are you using new bolts or the original ones?

You do realize that there are 2 different length bolts, right? I don't remember which goes on what end... but one end takes the shorter bolts, and the other end the longer bolts.

front takes the longer bolts, short ones for the rear

when i first placed the shaft into the yoke it did not go right in. i used 1 longer bolt to pull the shaft into the yoke. probably better to use an alternating combo of 3 long and 3 short just to guide it in straight. tighten the shorts then remove the longer and replace with the shorter.

I am using brand new bolts from the dealer and installing the shorter ones on the back.
When I bought the Jeep it was missing the front drive shaft. If it was missing for a while
I guess it is possible that alot of crud got it the internal threads on the transfer case yolk.