Replaced everything aft of the transmission this past spring. I purchased a new Stuffing Box from Catalina Direct. It came pre-packed with 1/4" composite packing which I removed as I am a big fan of GFO. As it turns out I had a hell of a time inserting the new GFO into the new Stuffing Box. In the past I had used 3/16" and it inserted easily. I know 1/4" was correct as the pre-packed packing that I removed came out in two pieces in perfect condition. When I matched the GFO up with what I had just removed it was identical in size. Being stupid is the only way I can describe what I did next. I simple pushed the GFO into the Packing Gland and twisted it on to the threads to move it into position. I did that twice and then splashed. I had some leaks, but not terrible. I simply put a few more turns and I know had a dry bilge. I then motored to my summer slip. I kept going below and checking the shaft and it was much warmer than usual. I actually have only gotten out once and that was last week. After motoring out of the inlet I checked my shaft and I could not even touch it it was so hot. I now know I must change out the packing while in the water. I have read that it is possible and I plan on taking the chance. I stopped by my winter yard and was told that what I had described was not uncommon. They had never used the GFO, but when they use traditional flax they almost always flatten it with a hammer to "thin it out". I called E Marine where I had purchased the GFO and they said to go ahead and try it. Again, the problem is the 1/4" just will not easily slide into the Stuffing Gland. I have my piece of PVC split to help push the packing into position. That alone will not work, that is how tight it is. It has been suggested to return to 3/16" and just use more rings, but I do not like that idea. Has anyone else had a similar experience? I did remove the Packing Gland on Friday so I know how much water to expect. I do not feel great, but I have to give it a shot or my sailing season is over. My Yard will not make a "house call" and I am afraid to motor the 2 hours with the packing the way it is. It is a brand new Shaft and I do not want to score it or damage it further.
GFO Packing Problem
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Why don't you like the idea of using 3/16"? If the 1/4" is too big, have you measured the box for the right size. In most cases a 1" shaft will take 3/16" packing. In most cases, not all, 'cuz some of our C34s, almost ALL of which had 3/16" do use 1/4". Since you know you can do it in the water, what do you have to lose? You could also back of the box, get some drips and motor back to the yard, so you'll get some water but not overheat the box. Measure the box and find out.
The reason is I pulled out 1/4" that had been installed by the manufacturer. Therefore, I would have to assume 1/4" is correct for this particular Stuffing Box. It was tight, but fit perfectly in the opening without extending into the 1" Shaft opening. As I had stated it came out easily prior to installation of the new Shaft. I did try and re-fit it as water was gushing in on Friday and I had the exact same issue as with the GFO. Perhaps, it is just slightly smaller than 1/4", but closer to size. The 3/16" would be much too small for the opening. My Yard swears they almost always compress slightly traditional Flax prior to installation. Why not try it with the GFO. I also purchased PTFE Flax and SYNTEF Lubricant to try if the GFO will not compress easily or cleanly.
Keeping Your Sox Dry .........................
................ try this method when you're packing the gland. Take all day and not take on a drop of water.
I seem to remember that GFO is a little bit harder than teflon impregnated flax and this may be the reason you're having problems in getting the 1/4" GFO packing into the tight spot. I agree the 3/16" will work very poorly as you'll really have to compress it to get it to stop leaking .................... and then the heat will start.
Consider using 1/4" teflon impregnated flax as it's very nice to work with. I just did mine recently and this time will be shooting for greater that five year life expectancy. And without leaking a single drop over the five years I might add.
http://forums.sbo.sailboatowners.com/showthread.php?p=872589&highlight=johnstone
Go slow and you'll have no problems with (and may even enjoy) this project.
................ try this method when you're packing the gland. Take all day and not take on a drop of water.
I seem to remember that GFO is a little bit harder than teflon impregnated flax and this may be the reason you're having problems in getting the 1/4" GFO packing into the tight spot. I agree the 3/16" will work very poorly as you'll really have to compress it to get it to stop leaking .................... and then the heat will start.
Consider using 1/4" teflon impregnated flax as it's very nice to work with. I just did mine recently and this time will be shooting for greater that five year life expectancy. And without leaking a single drop over the five years I might add.
http://forums.sbo.sailboatowners.com/showthread.php?p=872589&highlight=johnstone
Go slow and you'll have no problems with (and may even enjoy) this project.
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Warren,
My original stuffing box had 2 pieces of 1/4". I seem to remember there was an issue with E Marine's 1/4" flax being a little oversized. Maybe it's a mm size, not sure. I bought mine from West Marine and it fit better as it is true 1/4".
Search the history both @ SBO and the C30 yahoo group.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Catalina30/message/66325
Hope this helps.
My original stuffing box had 2 pieces of 1/4". I seem to remember there was an issue with E Marine's 1/4" flax being a little oversized. Maybe it's a mm size, not sure. I bought mine from West Marine and it fit better as it is true 1/4".
Search the history both @ SBO and the C30 yahoo group.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Catalina30/message/66325
Hope this helps.
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