I've heard of others on hear pulling the forks together using a cargo strap to close the gap but this would put stress on the forks.....not a good thing.
Yes I see it, now... That's NUTZ! :roll:
Lets make a few scenarios:
A. Static= Are where the forks sit now, no axle in place. You do not want to load/bind the fork's brass collars or the forks stick/drag/wear out faster are both the fork leg's chrome finish and the collar(s).
B. Spacers= Are the gap fillers that keep the forks in a static position and the wheel centered> when the axle is torqued to spec.
C. Axles= Are either machined even down the length or stepped-down/up along the axle's shaft.
Lets assemble the front wheel:
1. My front brake may have a smaller/larger spacer to make up for the one disc hanging off to one side, the hub needs more/less at this side.
2. My axle is all even down the shaft? If you are saying the collar does not spin, are we looking at a stepped-axle that only fits one way in one fork?
No ~ Then, we have a collar that floats, correct?
Yes ~ I do recall there is a step-up at the end of the axle and it won't fit in the other fork, it has to go in one way only.
3. My BD cannot have a fit and finish like this, no way. Where is that pdf shop manual/parts catalog?
4. My, my, it's right here on page dogeared, use factory tool strap number 'TUG HARD 12-372.' :loony:

Say it ain't so, Joey.