78 series cruiser. Unable to get rear axle back in.

Hi All

I have a 78 series Troopy. I have just replaced the rear bearings, hence have had both axles out. On the drivers side I am unable to slide axle back in due to a shim that has fallen down blocking about a 1/4 of the axle housing. I had this happen many years ago and phoned a guy I knew, ex mechanic. He's no longer with us. Anyway, my memory was that I just had to slide something in (broom or similar) and push the shim/washer up and back in position, I then slide the axle in. Not moving this time though.

I have had the axles out a couple of times since then without any problem. Unsure if I've had both axles out at the same time as I have now though.

I initially thought it didn't want to budge due to the twisting of the car due to being jacked up. Since then I have tried a variety of different wheels jacked up, on the ground etc. No luck.

Vehicle has factory lockers and the locker is on the side of the diff in question.

Thanks for your help.

Sorry, no picture, haven't been able to get a clear image down the axle tube. Shim is just before the diff spline.