rear axle nut torque

[chucks_toy]

Does the rear axle nut have to be torqued?

[Ron D]

Your choice.
The M38 manual says "tighten".
The Willys Jeep Universal Service Manual says minimum 150 ft-lbs.

[dpcd67]

I just tighten them with a two foot breaker bar.
Or use Tanker's torque; tighten it till it squeaks and then give it 1/4 turn more.
(Ok, do not do that was a joke from the old tank motor pool days, when assembling track. )

[Rebel Walker]

Make sure the key is in right way round.
Wrong way can spilt the hub.