MK III Gradiant end play

I have a MK III Commando. The gradient has a 1/2" shaft that sticks out the front of the transmission case, held in place by a spring clip. Does anyone know how much end play is allowable or necessary for that shaft. In an effort to keep the o-ring in place to reduce the amount of oil I loose from the shaft, I put a shim between the washer and the spring clip. The o-ring is now properly in place, but there is no end play in the shaft.

The quadrant shaft is pretty high up on the box and I would not expect much oil migrating here. The box should not be under pressure if the vent is clear and the quadrant only moves through a short arc. How much oil are you carrying in the gearbox?

As to the end play, as long as the shaft moves through its travel freely, you shouldn't have any worry.

I thought about it being above the fluid line too, but by the time I get back from any ride, it is drooling down the front of the transmission case. If I go for a long ride, it winds up dripping off the engine/transmission cradle and the swing arm. I have looked and looked and narrowed it down to the gradiant shaft. It was even drooling down the front of the trans case while I was working on it. I won't know how successful I have been until I get my primary cover back from the polisher later this week, I hope.

Thanks for your thoughts.