Just purchased a boat with 300x's, havent had outboards in over 20 years. while removing the prop last night i noticed a little play front to back in the shaft. should there be any ? is there a way to tighten it ? its a sporty lower unit.

A little is normal ..its a shim and too tight is bad ..so you should be fine.

Hi Bern, some front to rear play is normal, check the amount on the other gearcase, but if you think it is excessive have Rolph look at it.

Philip

thanks guys. stbd side is minimal maybe 16th to 8th of inch port side seems to be a little more. hey philip you bringing that thing down here or what ? cant let it collect dust again all sumer. i appreciate the conversations we've had extremely informative. Thanks Again