Left side fork question

[FLAVALK]

I know this is old stuff for many of you but this is my first time....and I have questions. 

Today I replaced the right side oil seal by removing the fork from the bike, pretty straight forward. Tomorrow I'm going to replace the left seal but I don't want to remove the fork tube from the bike. I've researched the archives and want to make sure I'm clear on the particulars below

1. Loosen only the top bridge pinch bolt
2. Loosen the fork cap, back it out until it separates from the fork tube
3. Push the slider up to expose the fork cap lock nut
4. Hold the lock nut and separate the fork cap from the rebound rod
5. Pull slider down and remove the lock ring from the fork tube
6. Yank the slider out of the fork tube. The spring will stay inside the fork tube. Be prepared to catch the oil.
6. Reinstall the slider (with new seal, backup ring and bushing) into tube and secure with lock ring. Install dust seal
7. Add fork oil by pouring it between the "special nut" and rebound rod
8. Torque fork cap to the rebound rod with locknut.
8. Screw fork cap into the fork tube and torque
9. Torque top bridge pinch bolt

Also, today after installing the right fork, I attempted to insert the axel bolt through the axel holder in both forks and noticed that the right side was about 3/16" lower than the left. That is, I had to force the axel down on that side to get it to line up.  Can that be adjusted by the height of the fork cap lock nut?

Any tips offered are appreciated.

[sandy]

When I have the cap off, I measure the exposed threads. I set each of them at 1/2" but it's only important that they are the same length of exposed threads. When I take care with this, I don't have problems with axle alignment.

[FLAVALK]

Fork seals are done. I went ahead and removed the fork, it's much easier that way. I did not remove the castle nut and spring. In hindsight, this is not a difficult job. Getting the calipers and wheel off is the worst part.

[FLAVALK]

When I have the cap off, I measure the exposed threads. I set each of them at 1/2" but it's only important that they are the same length of exposed threads. When I take care with this, I don't have problems with axle alignment.

Thanks you for your input. I matched the left thread length with the right and the axle bolts slid straight in.