Rudder Boxes

[savarese1]

We had our rudder boxes repacked and noticed they leak when we use the boat. No leaking when sitting at the dock. is this normal? Shame on me for not noticing how this was before. Thank you for any input.

 

[SEVEN]

That's normal. If they leak when berthed you will need to adjust the nut.

 

[savarese1]

Thank you. I feel better now

 

[SEVEN]

I have a 1979 53 MY. My rudder shaft is very difficult to reach due to the wood frame that was built around it. Is yours the same?

 

[savarese1]

No. Most likely this is not factory but i assume a previous owner cut out two access panes for each rudder box

 

[DCMY #92]

The rudder packing boxes should not leak - underway or at the dock. Shaft packing boxes must drip to lubricate the rapidly rotating shafts and dissipate the heat generated when underway. Rudder shafts move very slowly, generate no heat and can be tightened so that they don't leak at all. The steering system can easily overcome the resistance due to a tight packing box.

 

[fissioneng]

The rudder packing boxes should not leak - underway or at the dock. Shaft packing boxes must drip to lubricate the rapidly rotating shafts and dissipate the heat generated when underway. Rudder shafts move very slowly, generate no heat and can be tightened so that they don't leak at all. The steering system can easily overcome the resistance due to a tight packing box.

I agree. One of mine leaked when I bought the boat. It wouldn't stop leaking even after tightening, so I replaced the packing. No leaks underway or at rest.