Merc 850 crankshaft play?

[hereto]

Hi All,
Have a 1977 Mercury 850. I pulled the upper bearing cap today to inspect the bearing. My bearing felt fine but I noticed I have some side to side movement of the crankshaft ( right at .005 ) When I re-install the bearing cap, there is
no play. I'm thinking I have a problem!! I have been looking for slight rattle at about 3500 RPM. Might I have found it.
I sure hope this is NOT my problem. Sure appreciate some help.

hereto

 

[GA_Boater]

The bearing cap helps locate the bearing. You might need to keep looking.

 

[racerone]

Agreed, you need to keep looking.

 

[hereto]

I'm sorry, but I should have stated my question better.
I would like to know if there should be ANY side to side movement of the crank With the upper bearing cap removed?

Thank You
hereto

 

[racerone]

Yes of course there will be.---Bearings have clearance.--------------Remove the bypass covers and see if that helps find the " rattle " in your motor.---These covers are on the starboard side of the block.