(Steve B) wrote:

The tailwheel is not tight on the springs it is loose
and the wheel can be moved a few inches each direction
before the springs make contact.

These springs stretch over time, and gradually you end
up with what you're seeing. The slop in the controls
makes it harder to control the aircraft on the ground.

On both sides, take links out to get rid of the slop, or
consider replacing the springs if they've gone too soft,
which is common with the compression-type.

Don't overtighten, though - it will increase wear, and
might not be controllable if something in the linkage
on one side breaks.

--
ATP