Re: catalina27-talk: Shaft packing

[Chris Maddox]

I have a 1976 with Atomic 4 and 1" shaft.  I use the Goretex packing as well and I've had excellent results - they bill it as 'dripless' but owing to the collective wisdom of this list and an engineer's conservatism I adjust it to drip none with the engine off and about 1 drop/30 seconds at speed, and I adjust the packing gland maybe twice a year as needed.  Never runs hot (if the packing gland ever gets too hot to touch, you have an issue).  I think it's 3/16" but I can't quote that reliably, since I last changed it 3+ years ago.  There's no substitute for getting into the cave and measuring the gap.  Note you should be able to change this 'wet' by just stuffing rags in the open space.  I will second John's recommendation for two clamps at each end.  This should be your standard practice for any hose connection that has the potential to sink the boat. Chris Aria #2393 1976 - Pasadena, MD www.ariasails.com -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Mar 10, 2008 1:52 PM To: catalina27-talk@memberclicks.com Subject: Re: catalina27-talk: Shaft packing Stephan   I have an 83 with Universal diesel and the shaft is 1 inch.  I  used a 3/16 packing GTU Gore packing (graphite/gortex).  See WM catalog pg. 642.  So-so results.  I think my problem is with the shaft which is possibly scored and I have been unable to obtain the proper tightness and drip rate.  In reference to taking a look under the rubber, not sure that is needed, but you may wish to attach another stainless clamp to the boat side.  Mine has two clamps on both ends.   John Jennings      In a message dated 3/10/2008 11:41:44 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: All, I was wondering if anyone could tell me the packing size I need for a Catalina 27' 1978, this is the original Atomic 4 gas engine.  I realize there might be different shaft size but having the opportunity to go to a store today and not had the chance to measure the size I am hoping someone might have an idea:-)  Attached is a photo..also recommendations on the type of packing is welcome, seem like the standard stuff is cheap VS the graphite one 2-3 times the price.  This being my first sailboat, I was also wondering if I should remove the rubber attached to the fiberglass and take a peek in there? I am attaching a photo if that can help. * I know there was also someone on this list who belongs to the Nyack Boat Club but I lost your e mail address, if you could resend it:-) Thanks in advance, -- Stephan MSN: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Skype: stephan.debelle -- Stephan MSN: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Skype: stephan.debelle It's Tax Time! Get tips, forms and advice on AOL Money & Finance.