Reverse Idler Gear has play

[dsmithwc04]

I'm having trouble finding any info on the reverse idler gear. I looked through the manual and it shows part numbers but no diagram or specs.

My problem is the reverse idler gear assembly has play in it where it meets the gearbox case. The button head screw is tight on the gear which was found after trying to loosen it. I'm afraid to put a lot of torque on the screw since I'm not sure whats behind the gear in the gearbox. Can I put a ton of torque trying to remove the reverse idler gear? If I move the gear forward/backwards there is about 1/8" of wiggle room. This explains why my reverse gear has wear on the sides of the teeth perhaps.

[dsmithwc04]

FYI, after talking with Kevin at Comprent it appears the gearbox has to be dissassembled so that the spigot can be bored out, sleeved, and tapped for the original bolt. Bummer.

Good news is this can wait until after the season as long as I don't use reverse gear according to Kevin. I'll check it out after every weekend with my routine gear stack inspection.

I encourage all you guys to check your reverse idler gear for play when you check your gears!!!