Alpha 1, How much left to right play??

[U Rest U Rust]

Hi Boaters:

1989 Mercruiser 5.0 with Alpha 1 outdrive. There seems to be alot (8-10") of free play left to right. Is this notmal? The boat at low speeds does the left to right walk as well. If this is too much, what do I need to do to fix it??

Thanks

 

[Don S]

Re: Alpha 1, How much left to right play??

If this is too much, what do I need to do to fix it??

Yes, that's too much. The problem could be anywhere from the steering cable and helm unit to slop in the drive.
Have someone move the drive back and forth (Slop only) and see what all is moving.