Inboard prop shaft seals drip rate

[grewvin1]

Wellcraft St. Tropez 1987, twin 454's. Prop shaft seals are running water in bilge not dripping as should. Would like quick run down on adjusting nuts and correct drip rate. Would it be easier to swap out to dripless seal system?

 

[alldodge]

Re: Inboard prop shaft seals drip rate

Wellcraft St. Tropez 1987, twin 454's. Prop shaft seals are running water in bilge not dripping as should. Would like quick run down on adjusting nuts and correct drip rate. Would it be easier to swap out to dripless seal system?

The stuffing box (your prop shaft seal) is adjusted were there is next to no drips with the shaft not turning. With the shaft turning you should see 1 to 3 drips per minute. How to replace can be found in the below link
Packing a Traditional Stuffing Box - BoatingHowTo.com

It wouldn't be easier to replace with dripless seals but once done you should not have to replace for a very long time. If you go this way, make sure the shaft is fully cleaned and sanded prior to attempting to pull shaft out. Use liberal amount of oil on the cutlass bearing to assist in removal of the shaft. Unless there is a good amount of room in the engine compartment installing the boot to the hull is very difficult.