Raymarine Type 2 Linear drive pulling out takes a lot of effort

[jskamer]

Hello,

I just bought a spare type 2 linear drive as backup, and when i was working on it I noticed that, with no clutch attached, it was very difficult to pull the drive arm “out” while pushing it in was very easy. Upon further analysis I found that it seems there is some play on the assembly with the “orbital gears”, forcing them against the unit when i pull on the arm (see photos below, where the orbital gears touch the unit i pull on the arm, when they don’t i push). My question is, is this normal? And if its not, where would i start with diagnosing the issue?

Thanks in advance for any help!