Repacking prop shaft

[Barry Lunn]

I am attempting to repack my port shaft on an older 34 DC with an 1 3/8 shaft. I had no difficulty
getting the old packing out. According to everyone that I have spoken to and measuring the best that I
could, I found that I need a 5/16 packing. Unfortunately, I have been unsuccessful in my attempt to
install the packing in the gland nut. I have made multiple attempts to install the packing into the nut
with no success. I have even bought other packing to make sure that I did not have packing that was
packaged incorrectly. Has anyone had this problem? I really need help/advice getting the packing into
the gland nut.

Any advice would be appreciated.

[Boatsb]

Is it too thick to fit? Maybe go down one size or a little massage with a hammer to thin it out.

[SEVEN]

If it's the correct side I would suggest smashing it a little flatter with a hammer. It sounds funny but it works. Good luck.

[Barry Lunn]

Yes, its too thick. I tried smashing with a hammer a little but that didn't help either. I did not mention
this in my initial post as I didn't want to be too lengthy but I went back to a trusted marine store and
they said I could probably go down to 1/4 inch and just add an additional wrap making it 4 vs 3.
whats everyones feeling on that..Thanks

[SEVEN]

Not sure what the product is called but West Marine carries a flex packing that you can roll out to any thickness. It's green in color. I'll look it up and get back to you if I find it.

[SEVEN]

Dripless mouldable packing..

[Barry Lunn]

Thanks Seven, What is your feeling with dropping a size and adding a ring

[SEVEN]

Your trying to seal water out. If the packing nut can smash it so it does not leak, it will most likely be ok. If it drips even when docked it tells you it didn't.

[Boatsb]

Measure the space if possible. There could only be room for 1/4".

[Beckytek]

The correct size is the one that fits. If 1/4" is the best fit go for it. Ron