Bravo 3 Stern drive play

[Mischief Managed]

I have a Bravo 3 on my 2000 model year Regal. The drive has always had a bit of side to side play since I purchased the boat used last year. How much play, when measured at the aft most end of the drive, is acceptable? I have 1.22" as measured at the end of the anti-ventilation plate.

I have loosened at re-torqued the U bolt on that pinches the gimbal ring on the shaft swivel with no difference in play.

Should I be concerned about the 1.22" inches? It seems excessive to me and I think the boat is less directionally stable than it could be. Is there any fix/preventative measure I can apply now to save me from a big bill a few months or years down the road?

My Service manual 11 does not seem to discuss steering play but perhaps I was not dilligent enough when looking for the spec.

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Bravo 3 Stern drive play

I don't think 1 inch is a big deal....
However, you could have someone hold the wheel & try to isolate exactly where the play is occuring.....
There is more than 1 spot for slop to happen,,,,,,,
The amount of slop between the steering arm & the skeg should be zero ........JK