[nk235]

Ok I have read Main Sail's site on changing the stuffing box packing which was awesome by the way...however had one quick question for all you seasoned old salts out there. Is there a rule of thumb to tell what size flax packing you need?

For instance, I know the size zinc I have (have it written down on the boat but I think I use 1 1/4")

Anyway based upon the shaft zinc size, whether it is 1", 1 1/8 or 1 1/4 are you able to tell what size flax packing to use?

I am having the boat hauled this weekend but won't be able to get down to it till last minute to check the actual zinc size but once I do I was going to run to West and pick up the packing. Figured if I knew the "rule of thumb I would know the exact size packing to pick up.
Thanks!

 

[KeelHaulin]

Pull off the compression nut once the boat is OTH and remove the first ring of packing material. That will tell you what diameter of packing will be needed. It's the only way to tell if you don't have old packing aboard or written somewhere.

 

[trantor12020]

or you could have a range of sizes ready.