!940's rear axels

[Kozy]

I have two rear axels that look to be 36-47 vintage. One matches the description and measurements in Palmer's book exactly. The other is the same length and diameter except at the head were the step that slides into the axel spacer is missing, there's also a bevel at the threaded end which is not present on the other axel. The axel without the step also has a hole drilled perpendicular to the shaft three inches from the threaded end. This hole intersects another drilled from the face of the threaded end through the center of the axel. Can someone tell me if the axel without the step is OEM and what the purpose of the holes are? I'll post a couple of pictures to help with the description.

[Hollywood]

It's a VL axle... hole is for grease fitting

[Kozy]

Thanks, could it be used on a knuckle frame?

[wideglide38]

It's a VL axle... hole is for grease fitting

Hollywood - In reference to "hole" are you referring to the 1st photo, bottom axle with what looks like a hole about 2 or 2-1/2" from the left or thread end? I looked through Slocombe's book and see alemite fittings on the hubs (front & rear) but not the axles.

[diesel55]

axle

Hello Thats because its in the axle nut if you look closer .

[wideglide38]

Hello Thats because its in the axle nut if you look closer .

Ahhh, I see the fitting on the axle nut now. So fitting feeds the hole in axle! Thanks