2008 Evinrude E-TEC 55MFE Technical Manual, Page 261Get this manual
GEARCASE DRIVESHAFT SHIMMING
DRIVESHAFT SHIMMING
IMPORTANT: If new pinion gear is needed,
replace gear set before shimmingPinion gear backlash is adjusted by using shims between the driveshaft bearing housing and the thrust washerWhen installing new thrust bearing or washer, bearing housing, pinion, or driveshaft, it is necessary to properly shim the assembly to restore the correct clearanceUse Driveshaft Shimming Tool, PN 5005925Shim gauge bars are precision made and should be handled carefullyThe length of each bar is stamped near the part numberThis dimension is 0.020 in(0.508 mm) shorter than the actual shimmed length of the driveshaft
Select correct collar and shim gauge bar: Collar: PN 328363 Shim gauge bar: PN 328366 Slide the collar onto the driveshaft with large end in contact with the bearing housingInsert the assembled driveshaft into the tool base and tighten preload screw against the driveshaft until groove on the spring-loaded plunger is flush with end of threadsTighten locking ring on preload screw