Thank you sir, that was actually part of the problem. This lift is a 1975 mdl and it's never had the drum/ axle assembly off.
The original sealant and paint around the 10 bolt cover made it most difficult to remove. But it was a success. Did have to back off on the adjustment star to finally get them off. Rebuilt the cylinders, cleaned up the shoes and hub. Small groove in the hub, not enough to worry with, shoes still have lots of pad. Re assembling it today.
Thank you for the response sir.