[C320-list] Stuffing box question

[Jack Brennan]

So I’m preparing for a big step – changing the packing in my stuffing box for the first time.

All of the time I’ve owned diesels, I’ve never done this because the job required acrobatics beyond my capabilities. Obviously, with the 320, there is no reason not to learn to do this job myself.

First question: When you unscrew the nut, how much water comes rushing in? A gusher, a trickle? I know that each model of boat seems to be different. On my old Bristol, the mechanic reported there wasn’t much flow at all compared to other boats.

Second question: Assuming I’ve measured and cut the packing beforehand, do I need a wrap around where the water is coming in? This is a nod to my natural clumsiness and likely fumbling while under pressure to clean out the old packing as quickly as possible.

I was thinking an old bicycle tube wrapped around the shaft. Not leak proof, but enough to slow things down.

Any other good tips for a novice?

Jack Brennan
Sonas, 1998 Catalina 320
Tierra Verde, Fl.



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