Coupler or Clutch Plate Springs

[Sandy]

Chewing through the engine on the way to replacing the leaky real seal, is it normal for the coupler or clutch plate springs to be so loose they seem not to be located properly?

[SVJourney]

The springs should be tight with no movement what so ever.  Time to upgrade for sure as they can come apart during operation and make a mess of your engine.  Also good working springs save your trans and V-drive from vibration wear.
Newer plates use elastomerics instead of springs.  I replaced mine in New Zealand so they are available on your side of the pond.

https://store.pyiinc.com/pages/damper-plates

Cheers Mate

[S/V Deo Volente]

Here is a good article about replacing the damper plate on a Morgan OI.

https://goodoldboat.com/pdfs/GOB78_DamperPlate.pdf