Help, evinrude v8 lower unit

[alexvzx]

I am in the restoration process of an evinrude v8 (1986). There was little of corrosion in the chaff bearing, based on that, I purchased some new shims, washer, and bearing. When I check the manual, it is indicated to use tool 330224. This tool indicated that the measurement between the top of the gear and the bottom of the bearing holder should be 8.708. When I check the current assembly it measures 8.7455. Way off of the manual reading. Based on this difference, I checked in the internet and no other v8 lower unit looks to be the same that I have. Refer to pictures below for reference of the lower unit. Could any of the evinrude gurus can provide any feedback of this lower unit. 369716369717

[racer]

Stock unit with nose cone and larger skeg. You really need the tool to shim one not just taking a measurement. Don't have the book here but it is the tool plus .030 on a V8

[alexvzx]

Thanks for the reply, what is curious is the stock water inlet that apparently is not from the side as all the pictures that I have seen. I removed all epoxy and paint for the restoration and I was expecting some sign of weld, the only areas that shown some welding are from the nose cone.
In terms of the measurement, should be then 8.708 + 0.030+ the 0.002 that is the tolerance indicated in the book?

[flabum1017]

Like Racer said, the tool is the best way to measure. The fixture that holds the assembly while measuring puts a pre-load on the bearings which could make up a small amount compared to just holding it by hand. Also, the pinion bearing must be torqued to get a proper reading as well.

[alexvzx]

I have all the required tooling and the correct torque applied, just need to be clear about the correct
measurement.

[racer]

Once shimmed the shaft, gear, top cap shims etc in the fixture a .030 gauge should pass between gear and tool with a slight amount of tension. That is then the finished assembly ready to be installed. I will also say the once a V8 gear has been run removing it and reseating can lead to issues.

[alexvzx]

Excellent, thanks for your help. That is basically why I am trying to be consistent, to see if last for a while.