Hey Barney, did you check the friction screw on the side of the pivot shaft?
It is the adjustment for how easily the outboard moves side to side.
That friction adjustment screw is useful when trailering,
keeps the outboard from swinging back and forth.
Part #30 in the diagram
http://www.boats.net/parts/search/Yamaha/Outboard/2002/8MSHA/BRACKET/parts.html