Intermediate shaft connecting shaft – 4mm axial play

[sir911]

Hi all.

I’m rebuilding my SC engine and had a question about the intermediate shaft to oil pump drive tube (the little connecting shaft). When I push the tube all the way against one circlip, I notice there’s about a 4mm gap before the other end reaches its circlip. So about 2mm on either side when the shaft is centered.

Is this normal?

The tube still has plenty of engagement on both the oil pump and the intermediate shaft splines, but I was surprised at how much it can float back and forth. I don’t have a picture of my exact setup since the case is already closed, but here’s a random internet photo that shows the same piece for reference (not my engine).




These are original parts. My thinking is that this isn’t really a problem because once the engine is running, the shaft is transmitting rotational torque, so the axial float shouldn’t matter.

Could this cause a problem?

[sir911]

Reference photo. This is about a 1mm gap. Mine is twice that on either side.

Edit: the uploaded picture isn't being displayed on the page. Here's an alternate link of the photo: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15Fkx3dH18utB5fTQQcZAWkj-7q1W6k3o/view?usp=share_link

[Henry Schmidt]

As long as the connecting shaft moves freely, the amount of play is of no consequence.

[Flat6pac]

As long as it moves it represents the oil pump is on location.
Bruce

[sir911]

Thanks, Henry and Bruce. I was worried I might have to split the case again. I'll sleep better tonight.