stuffing box

[adamganz]

I'm having a hell of a time getting access to and tightening the stuffing box on my CD 28. i'm 6'4" and can fold myself into the lazarette but am not very effective once I'm in there.

I've had consistent dripping - more than makes me comfortable - and can't resolve the issue tightening so will probably try to remove/replace flax. Would love to hear how others have gained better access, and what you do once you get there. On my 28, there's no way to get a wrench around either of the nuts so I've been using a hammer and a large screw driver to lightly tap the nuts tighter/looser, but it seems to take more force than it should.

Thanks!

Adam

[Gary H]

Have you tried an offset pipe wrench? That is what I used on a 22d which may have even worse access.
I have the original bronze wrenches but they were of limited value on the 22d.

[psjanker]

Gary

I'm only 6' 1 but have the same issues...especially when I had to pull and reinstall my Volvo Penta 2002 transmission without pulling the engine...I spent alot of time under the cockpit, especially when I elected to switched out the my bronze shaft to a stainless and put in a dripless system.

The technique I came up with was to empty both lockers and to remove their cover boards. I would then go in one side and out the other. Make sure you tie both lockers open so one doesn't accidently slam shut and lock. I also took a boat cushion which certainly helped.

V/r

Pete

[Brian2]

Hello, I have a 28 and the same problem. The Spartan wrenches help a lot. I just go open both lockers, tie them open, crawl in like an above post, using a cushion for my chest when I lie down. Otherwise I come out all black and blue.

[tjr818]

This cockpit lockers are way to claustrophobic for me. On our 27 we can put a cushion on top of the engine and crawl in through the companionway ladder opening. Much, much easier. I can lay on top of the engine and easily read the stuffing box.

Cushion on Engine.JPG

cushion view.JPG

[mgphl52]

Giant screw driver (or very dull chisel) and hammer are the only tools i have room for on KAYLA:

link doesn't want to "pop"... try https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B7Hdcv ... vLTZV/view

[Bob Ohler]

I use the Spartan wrenches and the hammer and a hefty screwdriver technique. It is a BEAR of job! And I was bruised for a week.

Bob O.
CD30 with Universal M18