Shaft packing

[Capes]

Need advice on packing. Leaking pretty bad.

[Noah]

Here is a how-to:
https://marinehowto.com/re-packing-a-traditional-stuffing-box/

[Jim Hardesty]

Noah's link is the best.  For more, a lot more, discussion use the search box enter "shaft packing" and do use the quotes.  I'd try adjusting it first, remember to adjust only a little at a time, maybe 1/16 turn at a time.  Then at next haul-out check the cutlass bearing and change the packing.
Jim

[KWKloeber]

@Capes

It sounds from your post that possibly you're not well versed about the stuffing box. That's not criticism I'm just want to create a baseline to work with.
If not, please understand that over tightening to stop a leak can compress the packing to the extent that it can damage the shadt.  It's not like a rubber gasket that will rebound if some pressure is relieved.  It can stay tight and consequently burn the shaft.

So if you haven't tried adjusting the packing nut, be cautious.  Is there a mechanic or trusted boat neighbor who can guide you?
You don't want to tighten, then back off until you get a drip.  You want to SLOWLY adjust it, run the engine, adjust again the next day.

Can you haul to change the packing, and at the same time the log hose if it's due?

[Ron Hill]

Capes : I like to use(and use it myself) the Gore dripless packing. 410-392-3200

A thought

[Stu Jackson]

There is an entire section in the tech wiki about this:

https://c34.org/wiki/index.php?title=Stuffing_box

As my article there noted, there is an excellent section your BOAT MANUAL on it, too.