Is There a Bleeder Screw on My Stuffing Box

[dkinzer]

I'm getting ready for a short stay haul out in about a month during which time I'm planning to replace the stern tube hose and re-pack the stuffing box (plus a few other minor tasks, time permitting). I've been getting parts, making some tools I'll need and formulating the plan of attach.

While discussing the procedure with my buddy who'll be helping, I notice what looks like a small pipe plug on the side of the stuffing box (circled in yellow in the attached photo). Its appearance made me wonder if its purpose is to bleed air from the stern tube hose after going back in the water and before motoring.

Any thoughts on the purpose of this plug. And, too, what about the Phillips head screw just above it?

 

[dlochner]

Stuffing boxes typically do not have bleeder screws. So I'm not certain about the plug or the Phillips head screw.

However, while you have this apart, it would be worthwhile to replace the hose clamps with solid clamps not the slotted ones you have. These are more secure and do not cut into the hose. The ones you are typically a mix of stainless steel and ordinary steel and prone to rust and failing.

 

[jssailem]

The plug could be to bleed the shaft log. It also could be to fit a nipple that would permit you to attach a water source to push water into the shaft log. Often used to keep water in for a fast turning shaft. I have a nipple a little further back on the shaft log for the same purpose.

That is it in the circle. The hose went to my heat exchanger. Water was pumped into the shaft log to keep water in the log and the stuffing box cool.

The Phillips screw I would guess it is to secure a ground strap connection.

 

[dkinzer]

it would be worthwhile to replace the hose clamps with solid clamps [...]

Yes, I have four new 316 stainless T-bolt clamps along with the new hose and packing material.

I recently replaced the exhaust hose which also had the perforated hose clamps. Those were replaced with the T-bolt style clamps.

 

[Tally Ho]

Certainly an odd arrangement.

mine was similar, but didn’t have any plugs in it…but I eventually went with a Volvo dripless…

Greg

 

[Marmalade]

Looks similar...
Water Cooled Stuffing Box

 

[sailme88]

The bolt head is possibly a point to affix a bonding cable....