Shaft Packing Leak?

[VicB]

I have an 88' 3807 with twin Crusaders. As I am new to having a boat like this, i have been crawling over her almost every weekend, trying to get familiar with all the systems, so I can be familiar with everything I can, come boating season. One thing I have noticed is that the packing from each gland where the shafts go through the hull drips a drop about every 5 seconds. Is this normal? That equates to pumping out about 5-7 gallons of water every week or so. This always leaves water in the keel as well. Has anyone every replaced packing while in the water? I am thinking i will see if i can tighten it some this weekend. I think the shaft is 1-1/8". Does anyone know packing size?
Thanks in advance,
Vic

[g36]

You'll need 2 wrenches to tighten it. some drip is ok depending on type of packing. And yes packing can be changed while boat is in water. Not sure of the size of yours

[Cooler]

VicB - that shaft size looks a little thin for that model. At the end of this message is a link to 38AFT spec sheet. That discloses a 1 3/4" shaft. I don't know if shafts have been replaced with a smaller diameter but that would be unusual to say the least. If you have the owners manual and OEM list, you can find the specs in there. OR, you may want to call Carver with your hull # in hand. They should have the info for your particular boat. While that drip is not unusual, it is probably dripping more while the shafts are turning. I have a 330 Mariner, 1 1/4" shafts on V Drive. I do not drip at all, parked or running. That adjustment is a little tricky so be careful, instructions are in your owners manual.
https://carveryachts.blob.core.windows. ... bin_88.pdf

[VicB]

Cooler,
You are probably right. I measured them a while back and since then, I have done so much in that engine compartment that I would bet you are correct and i have my numbers confused. Last night i ordered 1-1/4 hose and all week i've called everything 1-1/4. I've got to quit watching so many Youtube videos. It all starts running together.

[bud37]

If you do decide to snug them up a bit, a good tip is to loosen first to flush a bit then tighten accordingly. I believe the packing manufacturers have charts to show the proper packing sizes for the different shaft sizes and packing gland designs.

[waybomb]

Inspect the threads - one side is righty, other is lefty. You also may need a big honking wrench to loosen the jam nut.

[km1125]

I'd have sworn I already commented in this thread, but don't see anything.

I have a 3607, so a similar but slightly smaller boat. I have 1 3/8 inch shafts.

I used these wrenches to adjust the packing. I got them from home depot and they aren't that expensive (and handy for a LOT of other things too). Get two and you can also use some short lengths of pipe if you need more leverage. Also, as waybomb notes, check the direction of the threads to make sure you're turning the right way or you'll never get things loosened up!!

rigid_adj_wrench.jpg

[Cooler]

Nice tool! ( she said ) Gotta go to Home Depot!

Careful when adjusting, too tight can create heat. Heat creates burn. Burn creates $$$. It is normal for standard shafts to drip a little while running. Some don't, but most do. er

[Redemption]

I wish I had that wrench yesterday.