Repalcing stuffing while in water

[Jim]

I need to refresh the flax in my stuffing box while in the water. Can anyone give me some pointers? Encouragement? I believe I'll need 3/16" flax. Thanks in advance,Jim

 

[Mike I.]

Packing

Check the archives of the C-30 list at Sailnet.net. Many posts about repacking while in the water (it is done with a rag and quick fingers!). On my C-30 the packing size is 5/16".Mike I.

 

[Bill]

did mine 2 weeks ago

Jim - I replaced the packing in the stuffing box on my 1984 C-30 a couple of weeks ago and was really happy with the results. I used 1/4" flax packing. It ended up taking me about an hour because of the time needed to remove the old packing. If it hasn't been maintained, the packing can be really tough to remove. Be sure that you have one of the special removal tools or another long, thin tool for the removal. I used an ice pick and a thin screwdriver. You just want to be sure not to scratch the shaft. Expect plenty of water to come into the bilge, but my pump handled it well. The results are worth it. Don't forget to do the final adjustment of the nut after the boat has been in gear for awhile. Don't over-tighten. If you want more info, you can e-mail me at wdgregory@hotmail.com. Good luck, BILL