Intermittent grinding noise (loud) coming from left front wheel

I removed the 4x4 locking assembly ,found damage to the inner spline and needle bearings. I replaced the assembly, but still have the noise. while apart I noticed the axle seal was out of the housing and can pry the axle up and down easily, not the stub shaft but the axle in the housing? the brakes and rotors are new, It sounds as though the front differential is trying to engage .