Rear Axle: Rear axle shimms on my 65 commander

[aandrautobody]

We have a 65 commander that we are in the process of taking the rear end apart. The car has a v8- 283 with a automatic transmission, a rana 44 with 3.31 gear ratio. My questions when removing the brake backing plates from the axle housing there was very thin shims located there 3 on the right and none on the left. Do they adjust clearance on the backing plate or what? Any input would be appreciated. The service manual only says use as needed!

Thank You

[64V-K7]

By the right, I'll presume you mean the passenger side. Unless you have the type axle with a threaded collar on the passenger side, the shims adjust the end play on the axles.

[55 56 PREZ 4D]

Used on the right [passenger side] only. The manual gives end play clearance.
If it was correct in the first place and you are not replacing any parts [other than seals] you "SHOULD" be ok to reinstall the existing shims.
Always better to check and adjust if needed though. Raylinrestoration site has a good writeup.