[C320-list] ? Add packing in the water?

[Warren Updike]

>From previous message -- "Adding" packing is highly discouraged, it is simply a bad practice. --
    I took a diesel maintenance class from a respected local mechanic.  He said that he never removed the old packing as it is compressed in use and gradually wears away.  I don't say I agree with this, just that he said it.
    When I switched to GFO packing, it was very difficult to remove the old packing, and difficult to know that I got it all out.  I made a bent hook tool to pick out the pieces; but, to really get it started I had to screw a long 3" deck screw (they have really large pitch threads) into the packing and pull with pliers.  This started the process and the hook was then able to catch and remove the material.  I keep the hook and screw with spare packing in a zip-lock bag.  Several people at our marina have since borrowed it to replace their packing.
    Having said this and having tightened the packing nut several times last season, I'm going to attempt to add another ring of GFO, to the existing packing.  Now that last years new packing has had time to "work in" another ring is called for.

Warren & Pattie Updike
C320, #62, 1994, "Warr De Mar"
Frog Mortar Creek, Middle River
Chesapeake Bay