Rudder packing nut and material question

[jt1989]

I pulled off the old packing nut on the rudder shaft, and ordering 1/4 in packing material for it, and the new packing material does not cover all the way to the edge of the nut where the rudder shaft goes through. Will the material compress and "seal" against the rudder shaft as I tighten it down? Or do I need to order a larger packing material?
Thanks

 

[Ned L]

Re: Rudder packing nut and material question

Of course there will be those who say 'get the right size', but for a rudder (esp. if it is one that you can access the stuffing box easilly when the boat is in the water) I would be inclined to give the 1/4" a try. I would overtighten the packing nut and then take it back off to see if it 'squished' much. Rudder stuffing boxes are quite forgiving, and if it doesn't work you can always order the right size. - If you can access the area easily it can be done with the boat in the water just as well (yes you will have a cup or so of water get by).