225 distributer question

I have a clackity clack noise coming from my distributer . Upon inspection I have some slop up and down in the distributer shaft. I removed the distributer and it would seem that by removing the gear I can take up the slop by adding a shim on the shaft between the gear and the housing the shaft goes into. Is this that simple a fix and has anyone else had this problem? Also what material should the shim be made of?
Thanks, Steve

 

There is supposed to be some up/down slack in the shaft (don't know how much) and my dist already has a shim installed as is the case for all that I have seen. Another thing that will cause that sound in the distributor is weak springs and or worn fly weights in the top which is your mechanical advance.

 

Thanks Walt. Mine has a shim there as well but there is at least an additional 1/8 th inch slop that I feel to be excessive. I may just replace the springs first as it is easy and quick provided I can find the springs.

 

Yes Patrick, The timing chain was replaced with a double roller when I rebuilt the motor. Maybe 2k on the motor now.

 

Thanks, I appreciate all input!