H34 Stuffing Box Replacement (Size)

[Derek Rowell]

I just had the stuffing box/coupling hose replaced on my H34. Here's the problem (that's making me very nervous):Thel ID on the original hose was 1 5/8 in and the shaft log and the stuffing box are also 1 5/8. The new one that they installed uses 1 3/4 in. ID hose. The yard simply clamped the hose down on to the shaft log (bronze) at the stern. The extra 1/8 in diameter in that stiff coupling hose requires a lot of tension in the hose clamps to compress and hold it. I'm concerned at the posibility of it coming off - disastrous!The yard says that nobody makes a 1 5/8 in stuffing box for a 1 in prop shaft. I'm not sure I believe them - certainly they made them in 1983! Does anybody know where I can get the correct size for the H34? I'll replace it at the next haulout if I can find the correct unit.Derek

 

[Joe O]

I wouldn't worry...

Derek,Going up to 1 and 3/4 size hose is only an 1/8 difference on the diameter. As long as each end of the hose is double clamped, you shouldn't have a concern. Over time the hose will "flow" to the smaller size as it reacts to the tension of the clamps, thus reducing the tension of the clamps. To ease your mind you can check the clamp tension (nut torque) periodically. You may find that they've loosed up over time. Stainless hose clamps are very strong. You can always call a hose clamp manufacturer to find out what the reccomended torque is and check it with a torque wrench...but I think this is unnecessary. However, it is important that the clamps be doulbled. I don't believe your yard guys when they say 1 5/8 hose is no longer available. JoeO

 

[Barry]

Suggestion

When I worked on I/O motorboats they used various hoses and rubber bellows on the outdrives. There was only room for a single clamp so they use an adhesive between the aluminum flange and the rubber. This would certainly help keep the hose from coming off.Had planned to replace that hose on my h34 when I did the cutlass bearing a few years ago. Never did it because I bought a 1 1/2" hose that wouldn't fit. Maybe I'll start looking for the right one now that I know the correct size.Barrys/v "PER DIEM too"