T&T: SHAFT PACKING 1

[John Barlow]

I had a problem that the starboard motor had a humming noise above 60%
power. I had the engine alignment checked (twice), the cutlass bearings
replaced, and finally the props serviced and the shafts balanced.

Well last week I pulled the boat for bottom paint and service. While I had
the boat out of the water I decided  to repack my stuffing boxes since it
had been done around 3 years ago and it was leaking. I used the Gore Tex
product and have since found no leaks. What I did find is that when I
replaced it years ago I neglected to get all the old material out causing
the new hemp packing material to go in kitty-wompus and when I revved up the
motor under load the noise started.

$6 part caused it all, man I hate boats!


Capn John
Hilton Head, SC
1987 3870 Bayliner Motoryacht