axle loose on 4wd

[chevy]

I got this 4wd cheyenne for a song hoping the horrible growling/grinding sound was simply a wheel bearing. WHen I jacked it up I come to see that the axle from the transfer case to the driver's side hub moves in and out four inches which does not seem correct. I would have started to tear into it but did not have a socket large enough to remove the nut that on 2wd holds the bearing in place. How tough is this job? Approx cost? HOurs to do myself. Size of socket? Did a search without result. Can't belive this is the only rig that has had this fail so I am wondering if everyone just took it to a shop.

[chevyguy]

Sounds like your missing the c clip. Take both side apart and compare what you remove. My bet is that you will find it has been assembled without the c clip. Wont make it grind, but should limit travel. My bet on the grind is still the bearing.