[C320-list] Stuffing box nut replacement?

[Jeff Smith]

I am not versed on the stuffing box but I think the concept is the propeller shaft extends through the stuffing box, which contains the packing material, and then there is a jam nut and a packing nut that you use to tighten everything. Is it possible to take the propeller shaft loose from the coupler (leave the coupler attached to the engine), retract the propeller shaft enough so that you can re-threat the stuffing box (or replace it with one from CD)? You could borrow the Association tool and change your cutless bearing while you are at it (if it has not been replaced in awhile). 

Again, I have a dripless so this may be worthless advice. But I would try this, or something like it, before I removed the coupler from the transmission/engine and had to worry about alignment issues.

Jeff
’94, #121

> On Mar 29, 2021, at 4:55 PM, <ptormey at 4square.net> <ptormey at 4square.net> wrote:
> 
> It will not hand start without any stuffing! So it's definitely the threads. 
> 
> 
> No I'm not hitting anything with a hammer. I was thinking AFTER I disconnect from the  motor the key'd couple shouldn't be too tight a fit. 
> But I'll use a puller if it comes to that. 
> 
> I am hoping hat I can get past the first full turn by hand when there will be plenty of thread engagement.
> 
> thanks 
> Pat
> 
> Pat Tormey
> S/V Blue Skies
> Newport RI
> 
>