OMC Cobra Shift Cable Question

[Floatsmyboat]

How much free play should there be in the transom shift cable on an omc cobra? Mine started shifting bad into reverse, so I adjusted it, and it seemed as if there is more free travel in the cable then there should be. There was at least 1/2 inch before it would begin to shift into either forward or reverse. I had to end up adjusting the shift cable bracket all the way to the bottom of the slot to take out the free play. I have never had to adjust it past the half way point, as well as the reverse overstroke cam. Any ideas?

Thanks

Greg O.