Requesting part numbers and tips for stuffing box replacement

Apr 5, 2016
71
Hunter 33.5 Grapevine, TX
Hi all,
Have a 1989 Hunter 33.5 and the stuffing box is leaking pretty badly (it is the OEM nylon one). I did an in-water swap of some of the flax which helped for a bit but it looks like the rubber stern tube hose is canted so figure might as well replace that, the stuffing box and the cutlass bearing all at once. I've done a lot of research on the forums and lots of people recommend upgrading the nylon box to a regular brass one. I have verified it is a 1" shaft. A few questions:

1) I think I found the OEM part number for the bronze stuffing box (http://shop.hunterowners.com/hp/part.php?m=33&c=12&p=52246) but out of stock here and can't find anywhere else these are sold. Anyone else have a lead or link on a stuffing box they'd recommend?

2) I think this is the right cutlass bearing, but if anyone can put a second set of eyes on it I'd appreciate it. http://shop.hunterowners.com/hp/part.php?m=33.5&c=12&p=53571&a=1

3) I have heard horror stories of people having to either drop the rudder or drop the cutlass skeg to pull the shaft out. I know the shaft would need to slide back, but would it need to come out to replace the stuffing box and shaft log hose? Does anyone with a 33.5 know for sure if the rudder or cutlass skeg needs to be dropped to do this replacement or is there a way to avoid having to do that?

4) I have also heard horror stories about the flange which connects the shaft to the flange on the transmission being impossible to separate from the shaft, but that they aren't expensive (~$150) to replace so might be a time saver to just sacrifice it in process of getting it off the shaft. Anyone know how this would actually be done? Would you cut it with a torch, or hacksaw, or something?

Thanks for any info and any other tips. I'm having a repair yard do the work but the yard is a mom-and-pop and while they've done it before they're also very open to model-specific tips.

Thanks,
'Dubs
 
May 27, 2004
2,056
Hunter 30_74-83 Ponce Inlet FL
I just had the flange replaced. It took some cutting with a sawz-all to get it off. And yes, I'd replace it.

Removing the skeg on my 79 H30C was not a big chore... just be able to stand on your head while performing brain surgery. :laugh:
Just be sure to re-bed the bolts properly when you reinstall.

The prop shaft might then pass the rudder as it did on mine.
Good luck with your project.
 
Jun 6, 2006
6,990
currently boatless wishing Harrington Harbor North, MD
You should be able to measure the prop shaft length from where it enters the boat to the trany coupling and then go to the prop and measure away from (direction you would have to slide it) it to see if there is room.