input shaft on tiller has slight play

[bean 85]

I started working on my tiller again and removed the large pulley on the input shaft, to check the seal/bearing. I noticed the input shaft has slight play in it. the 2 tine shafts are rock solid.

I hate to split the case, but will if I need to replace the needle bearing/seal.

just looking for advice/ past experience

[daveoman1966 3,841]

If the oil level is full and there isn't apparent oil leakage at the input shaft, I'd not lose sleep over it.  Which axis does the the shaft move? Don't forget, the 90w (140w) gear lube is not under pressure at all...not as if it was a hydraulic system and not like it would drip as if 30w motor oil.      

[bean 85]

that

 

 Don't forget, the 90w (140w) gear lube is not under pressure at all...not as if it was a hydraulic system and not like it would drip as if 30w motor oil.      

Dave,

that was my thought. the input shaft isn't  partially submerged in oil, like the tine shafts,  it appears to get its lubrication carried up from the chain.

a little seepage would be ok, until I can open it up this winter.