1999 "EE" Evinrude 70HP 4-Stroke Service Manual, P/N 787023, Page 169Get this manual
Propeller Shaft End Play
1Measure thickness of original reverse gear thrust washer Remove the propeller shaft and install shim of same thickness, or nominal shim from shim kitRefer to Gearcase Shims and Thrust Washers2Install propeller shaft assembly and secure with retainer[] 3Using dial indicator attached to propeller shaft and st raight edge, slowly push in on propeller shaft to read maximum playThe end play must be 0.0080.016 in(0,200,40 mm) If amount of play is larger than specified, increase thickness of reverse gear thrust washer If smaller, decrease thickness of reverse gear thrust washer Use only one shim to adjust for specified end play