I'm considering having a PYI dripless shaft seal installed on my Catalina 30 MKIII. Power is the 26hp Universal diesel and currently configured with standard stuffing box/packing gland as delivered by Catalina. Does anyone have experience in changing over to the PYI dripless seal system? Catalina tells me it's fine and that they're now installing it as standard equipment on some models. Will appreciate info or advice from anyone who's made this change. If I go for it, I'll have it done by a local yard - we have several in this area that can do the job. Thanks!
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No Problem
I installed one on a Catalina 270 I had several years ago. It was easy to install and virtually maintenance and drip free.
I installed one on a Catalina 270 I had several years ago. It was easy to install and virtually maintenance and drip free.
Thats interesting . What problem were you having
with the Gore packing? I've had it on my C36 for 5 seasons and it works great. It never really drips, all I might ever need to do is tighten the packing gland a bit at the beginning of every season. I personally know dozens of other boats that have had similar experience. Why would you take your stuffing box apart over the winter? Did it work last season? If so why "futz" with it ? I also had the PSS mechanical seal on my old boat and it worked ok (well other than the one time the stainless collar shimmied up the shaft...thats another long story) I was going to get it on my new boat but after trying the Gore packing for one season on the recommendation of a freind I see no reason to ever go to the expense and hassle of using a mechanical seal. just my 2 cents
with the Gore packing? I've had it on my C36 for 5 seasons and it works great. It never really drips, all I might ever need to do is tighten the packing gland a bit at the beginning of every season. I personally know dozens of other boats that have had similar experience. Why would you take your stuffing box apart over the winter? Did it work last season? If so why "futz" with it ? I also had the PSS mechanical seal on my old boat and it worked ok (well other than the one time the stainless collar shimmied up the shaft...thats another long story) I was going to get it on my new boat but after trying the Gore packing for one season on the recommendation of a freind I see no reason to ever go to the expense and hassle of using a mechanical seal. just my 2 cents
No Problem.....
Not having problems with current configuration. However, a friend with a Pearson 31 has the PYI seal and praises it highly. I wouldn't mind having a dry bilge, as he does with the PYI seal.....
Not having problems with current configuration. However, a friend with a Pearson 31 has the PYI seal and praises it highly. I wouldn't mind having a dry bilge, as he does with the PYI seal.....
Dripless
After talking to a number of owners and wanting to go dripless, I decided to spend $15 and try the GFO teflon packing. It's a must to follow the instructions to the T. Unfortunately I am not back in the water yet so I can't tell you how well it does, but I know a number of sailors that sware by it. The price is right. jr
After talking to a number of owners and wanting to go dripless, I decided to spend $15 and try the GFO teflon packing. It's a must to follow the instructions to the T. Unfortunately I am not back in the water yet so I can't tell you how well it does, but I know a number of sailors that sware by it. The price is right. jr
Great
I have had mine on my 30 for 5 years - love it - dry bilge. I have a ss hose clamp installed on the prop shaft just forward of the drip less system disk - I don't completely trust the set screws although I have never had a problem. As well if my shaft ever lets loose from the transmission the hose clamp may keep it from leaving the boat.
I have had mine on my 30 for 5 years - love it - dry bilge. I have a ss hose clamp installed on the prop shaft just forward of the drip less system disk - I don't completely trust the set screws although I have never had a problem. As well if my shaft ever lets loose from the transmission the hose clamp may keep it from leaving the boat.
It is worth it
I put one in my 86 Catalina 30 myself. Never regretted it. No more sticking your head in the aft engine compartment counting the drips/minute and tighting that big nut. I will install one in my new (used)boat next season. On a non related matter, I hope to one day make it back to WA for some sailing. I was stationed on Whidbey fron 76 to 78. You are in some neat country.
I put one in my 86 Catalina 30 myself. Never regretted it. No more sticking your head in the aft engine compartment counting the drips/minute and tighting that big nut. I will install one in my new (used)boat next season. On a non related matter, I hope to one day make it back to WA for some sailing. I was stationed on Whidbey fron 76 to 78. You are in some neat country.
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