bought a used distributor online (i know, i know) and when i got it in the mail today, it seems to have some "shaft play". i've never really torn apart a distributor, but i assume there's a bearing or two in there. is this most likely the culprit?

 

Yes there is a bearing in there.The obdo failed pretty regularly.It can be replaced.Do a search,I think there are some how to's out there.

 

yes as njin said the bearings failed regularly and can be changed but how much play do you have because some is normal