Our engine compartment STINKS!

[demonboy]

Perhaps related to the previous post about the battery smell, I've also noticed a rather strange smell coming from the back of the engine, and it smells distinctly like pesto!

The only think I can think is that I have recently restuffed the stuffing box and it's the asbestos being worn away with a lack of grease (which I have now greased properly).

Does this sound familiar or possible?

 

[CPD]

Yes. Does/did the stuffing box run warm at all ?. I am sure you know the drill about loosening until you get a very slight drip, but yes the heat can be intense, and yes, that could have caused the smell. All IMHO of course !

 

[demonboy]

Hmmm...about to motor to the other end of the bay so will check out, but I do get one drip every thirty seconds, which I think is acceptable, no?

Thanks for confirming that this is the likely cause!

 

[CPD]

Yep, the thirty second drip is normal I think. Hopefully you run will show all is well now you have greased it.

 

[NPMR]

We have virtually NO drips (but a lot of grease) and it's been like that for a couple of years. Do you think this indicates an OK set up? Not overtight etc?

We try not to use the engine very much; don't like the noise!