Question about dripless packing

[Jon B]

The previous owner installed dripless packing about a year ago. I've had to tighten the gland a 2 or 3 times this summer, because of excessive dripping at the dock (multiple drops per second!)There is some "green goo" that has leaked out underneath the gland, and around the shaft. Is it normal for dripless packing to leak out during operation?

 

[Dick Carey]

Re: Dripless Packing Compound

Jon,It may be that the Dripless Compound was not installed correctly.I have changed form just Flax packing to the Dripless packing over 3 years ago and it still works fine. I may re-do it this winter/fall after haulout just because its been in there awhile.The proper installation is to put in one ring of Flax Packing, then the equivelent space of one ring of the 'Green Putty', then another ring of Flax Packing. After that, screw in the packing nut 'snug' but not too tight. After running in the water the first time there may be some drips. Just tighten up enough to stop them. Check after each use for the next few uses. It should not be dripping.If 'Green Goo' is coming out, he may not have put in the last (or even the first) Flax Packing ring.Check it at your next haul out.Dick CareyS/V PuffinH-33.5, 1990