Packing Gland Sizes

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ccroke13
Posts: 35
Joined: May 5th, '16, 13:04

Packing Gland Sizes

Post by ccroke13 »

Hey all, Happy New Year. I’m starting a list of projects that I need to do and parts to order for the boat and was wondering if anyone can help with sizes. I need to repack the rudders and shafts this season. What size packing and material do I need. The rudders are stock 31. The shafts are 1 3/8”. Also is it just easiest to get from my local West Marine or is there a better place? Thanks.
Chris C.
Boston, MA
1970 31 Bahia Mar
1977 28 FBC
pschauss
Posts: 539
Joined: Oct 31st, '17, 12:08
Location: Long Island

Re: Packing Gland Sizes

Post by pschauss »

My shafts are 1 1/4" and I used 1/4" regular waxed flax packing. It's a basic product so you should be able to get it from anyplace which has it in stock.
Peter Schauss
Water-Lou
1978 B31 SF (BERG 1727M781-314)
Amberjack
Posts: 545
Joined: Jul 15th, '15, 13:32
Location: Seattle, WA

Re: Packing Gland Sizes

Post by Amberjack »

Chris, its important to use the right size packing material. Probably as Peter says yours will be 1/4" but its easy enough to put a set of calipers on the old packing you are pulling out. If it worked for several years it is the right size. One dimension too large and you won't be able to force it in, one dimension too small and it will give a sloppy seal that drives you nuts with leaks. I know, I've done it all.
Doug Pratt
Bertram 31 Amberjack
FBC hull #315-820
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bob lico
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Joined: Jun 29th, '06, 19:22
Location: sayville,long island

Re: Packing Gland Sizes

Post by bob lico »

the best wear would be to use 5/16" and alternate installation 120 degrees apart. here's`s the secret after cutting each piece at a 45 degree angle dip your fingers in N-5000 nickel-graphite anti-seize lubricant and coat each piece entirely then install .this installation is in the the Phoenix for 15 year under extreme duty.at 30 knot speeds and huge rudders (about the same as 55' Viking).
capt.bob lico
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Tony Meola
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Re: Packing Gland Sizes

Post by Tony Meola »

When I had the 454s, 1 3 /8 shaft, I used 1/4 inch gortex. It was called GFO PACKING.

You can use regular packing or whatever you find at west marine.
1975 FBC BERG1467-315
ccroke13
Posts: 35
Joined: May 5th, '16, 13:04

Re: Packing Gland Sizes

Post by ccroke13 »

Thanks guys. I appreciate the info.
Chris C.
Boston, MA
1970 31 Bahia Mar
1977 28 FBC
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