Did you check the bolt directly on top of the rudder? Mine was loose on a 196 which caused additional play. The safety wire prevents it from becoming looser but doesn't stop it from getting loose.
I bet you guys had some killer beer bongs back in the day! I've used my flush pro on over 15 boats and they were nice enough to upgrade me to the current model when the last one failed.
Thanks @Hortonfor donating the handles for the Berkeley Water Ski Club Raffle. The winners were pumped but I would have preferred a donation from one of your advertisers like your ProStar.