While my boat was in the shop today having some custom aluminum work done (pics tomorrow when the sun comes back up) the shop foreman told me I probably needed to replace my lower bearings and that the u-joint had to much play on the shaft. i asked him how he knew but then he suddenly had to handle a situation and I didn't have time to stick around. As he walked away he did point out a small metal ring no thicker than a key ring that was between the prop nuts and the lower bearing assembly.

So.....I turn to the other experts......

What do I look for?

Anyone?..

This is what he showed me above the upper bearing where it's slipping. I think it just needs to be tightened? Thoughts?

Has to change the post title to get some attention. I have the afternoon off and was going to work on the boat to get ready for my first hunt in it on Saturday.

Looks like it was tack welded to the key. I would replace the key also,looks worn.

Look at your nut it has a grove in it. Your little washer has taken the shape of the nut. To much play.

At least someone tell me I can wait to fix it until the split......

Replace the bearing and key (machine shop or small engine shop might have one) also replace the washer. Check the threads when you take the nut off. It might last a year it might fall off tonight I haven't seen it.