I was aware of the asymmetric spindle going in, though, and I am 97.3% sure I installed the long end on the right (drive) side. I have less than 1/4 inch clearance on the right crankarm-to-chainstay as it is. But I suppose I'll have to dig into it again tomorrow just to make sure.

Thanks arex. It really is the only thing that makes sense here, short of maybe having the wrong size ball bearings. Hey, that's a thought... Since the plastic ball cages were missing, and I had 11 balls per side loose in there, I wonder if whomever rebuilt it last time used the wrong size balls? I just bought the same size (1/4" dia.) to replace them. If it calls for bigger balls that would add to the stackup on the left side and give me more clearance. Hmmm...

Does anyone know for certain what size ball bearings are supposed to be in there?