Drive Shaft Play

[Barracuda]

I have a 1973 pre alpha outdrive. Serial #3587533. I took the whole thing apart to fix a bent prop shaft. After putting everything together I noticed the drive shaft (not prop shaft) has about 1/16 -1/8" play (up/down). It will pull up that much when I pull on it. Is this normal? It seems that it would wear out the water pump with this much play. I have a Clymer's manual and it only give me info on side play, not up/down play on the drive shaft. Thanks.

 

[outboardguy]

Re: Drive Shaft Play

I believe that that kind of play is normal. Look at the top of the driveshaft and see if it has a preload pin. The preload pin pushes the shaft down into the bearing cup.Mercruiser later decided that since the shaft has a tendency to go up when spinning that they would turn the bearing over and preload it the other way.I'm sure others will chime in if I'm mistaken

 

[Barracuda]

Re: Drive Shaft Play

Thanks for the response! That makes me feel better.<br /><br />Matt

 

[rabidfish]

Re: Drive Shaft Play

You got it right...