The output coupling rides inside the rear bearing. With the coupling removed, the tailshaft will have some motion - can't really say whether 1/4" is too much. Check again with the coupling in place - should be fine.
Replacing the seal should stop the leak. First overhaul I did consisted of new rings and a new output seal. Engine is still in the boat to this day, and just completed a run from CT to Rockland, ME - including about 30 hr of continuous running (at reduced throttle, burning 10 gal of fuel). Only issue was an exhaust system failure, repaired class A in 9 hours at Burr Bros in Marion, MA.(yes, this is a plug - they're good and fast).
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