Stuffing Box Flax

[betzhunter]

Could someone tell me the correct size Flax I need for my boat. Its a Hunter 34 1984 model. Thanks

 

[Allan12210]

3/16 inch

 

[Roy10289]

If you call Hunter,and give them the info,they will tell you. I believe also that Main sail has adressed this topic also if you search his postings on this site.

 

[betzhunter]

Thank You, I also read Main sails write up but was just wondering what was the correct size for my boat. I think he was doing a c36. Any way would I also use the 3 ring method as he does in his writeup?

 

[Roy10289]

I used the teflon stuff on mine and have had no problems or adjustments necessary for the past 2 years. The stuffing box is cool to the touch,doesn't drip more than necessary,etc.
The previous owner had used the green clay like material,and perhaps it lasted for him,but when I bought the boat I had a lot of dripping so replaced the material with the teflon stuff.

 

[Richard Bryer]

3/16 is right, use 3 rings and stagger the slant cut ends

 

[betzhunter]

3/16 is right, use 3 rings and stagger the slant cut ends

Thanks Richard

 

[smoothsailing]

Packing Gland Flax

Could someone tell me the correct size Flax I need for my boat. Its a Hunter 34 1984 model. Thanks

Bezhunter

Check out this great website before you do anything. Its like a bible

http://www.pbase.com/mainecruising/stuffing_box&page=1

Bill
Morgan 30
Espa

 

[Warren Milberg]

Two thoughts:

1. I suggest that you measure you own packing gland. Very easy to do. If you use a number provided by someone else you are presuming he has exactly the same gland type and size you have. That may or may not be the case, but you do want the right size packing.

2. Use GoreTex packing material. It is superior to flax and very long lasting.

 

[Witzend]

GorTex is the way to go. If you can spend the time getting the adjustment just right, almost no drip when running and still stays cool. No drip when not running. I have a dry boat as a result.

 

[Roy10289]

I agree with Witzend. When I first installed the GorTex I made the adjustment very loose because I was told there must be a few drips every min when running. I tightened the nut a little at a time,always checking the temp of the stuffing box. It remains totally cool to the touch,yet hardly drips when running. I too have no drip at all when not running the engine. This product is the best I have found.
I have a 1" shaft and not a plastic (white) stuffing box. I called Hunter Marine and they said with mine I should use 3/16" packing material.