I broke the shaft about ten yr ago, stuck in a new one and had no problems. If the machine is new to you, there are several things to check out re: the grain pan, the shoe pitman ( notorious for wear at both ends ),play in the big left hand bearing cast housing that secures the shaft and the bearings (4) that secure the shaft to the grain pan. Also, chect the rubber mounts and steel arms that secure the front of the pan to the frame just under the concave. If you want, I can send you the appropriate details from the service manual.