How much in and out propshaft play is acceptable??

[KD4UPL]

My boat is a '97 Larson 206SEI with a Mercruiser 5.7 and an Alpha 1. I have an aluminum 3 blade prop.
I noticed while checking my prop that it moves in and out slightly when I pull on it. It's only about 1/8 inch. Is this normal?
It's been that way for at least a few boating trips and everything mechanically with the boat seems fine. I don't want to be ignoring a sign of bearing failure or some thing. The prop nut is tight. It's the prop and the shaft it's bolted too moving as one.

 

[sharkin95]

Re: How much in and out propshaft play is acceptable??

normal ....they all have some play in them mine is about the same 1/8 to 3/16"

 

[89Donzi]

Re: How much in and out propshaft play is acceptable??

Both my boats with Mercruiser 3.0's and Gen 2 drives do that as well.

 

[theBrownskull]

Re: How much in and out propshaft play is acceptable??

Mine is the same way.

 

[ENSIGN]

Re: How much in and out propshaft play is acceptable??

Normal wear and tear(KB3QVL)

 

[KD4UPL]

Re: How much in and out propshaft play is acceptable??

Thanks guys, I can rest easy about that one.