Stuffing box ??

[theguvnor]

Just received a survey for a 44` Dutch Steel Cruiser. All seems A1 condition but has a leak in the "Propeller Stuffing Box" - wossat???

Is it major greif to fix
The boat is in Holland & is to be lifted for a couple of annodes

 

[mad_boater]

stuffing box is another name for the gland on the prop shaft.
this gland uses a combination of special thick string and waterproof grease to seal round the shaft.it can usually be tightend up to stop the leak unless it needs re-packing which isn't a big job if you can get at it.

 

[theguvnor]

Thanks - just what I needed

 

[TigaWave]

Some are also designed to run without grease as water is a better medium to dissipate the heat generated. These will drip slightly with the shaft rotating but should be adjusted to be dry with a stationary shaft. If grease is used it can also block up the water lubricating channels in the bearing that will be housed behind the gland.

As long as packing is kept wet it will seal without grease.

So check what make and try and find out if it has water lubricated bearings as part of the assembly, it could be a simple job of replacing the packing or just adjusting the gland which puts pressure on the packing.

 

[jotheboat]

I'm pretty sure Vetus do a 'water-lubricated' stern tube. If nothing else their web site might give you some idea what it's all about.

 

[Kawasaki]

Click on this www.tnorrismarine.co.uk
Top firm ref all things to do with Stuffing boxes etc.
Just dealt with them. Excellent service and advice.