Correct size packing for stuffing box?

[hilbert]

I tried 3/16" and it was loose, but 1/4" was tight.
How does one determine the correct size packing? How tightly should it fit?

The previous owner used 3/16" and it never sealed properly, however it was old and the shaft is not perfect. The box looks like a Buck Algonquin, which uses 1/4" packing for a 1" shaft.

[hilbert]

Heading out to the boat this morning to try and figure this out. Any suggestions?

[RLW]

I would go with the 1/4" and monitor the temp of the box with a pyrometer (IR thermometer) or your hand. As it runs in I suspect the drip rate will increase. If it's too warm, have a plan B.

[barfwinkle]

GM

My owners manual says 1/4"

Good luck.

Fair winds

From the 1981 Manual which includes the 28

If you are having trouble keeping the stuffing box from leaking excessively, alignment should be
rechecked. Misalignment will cause the packing to wear excessively and once corrected should solve
the leaking problem. All CDY stuffing boxes use 1/4” waxed flax packing. Do not use synthetic or
Teflon® packing.

The 1986 manual says the same thing but I can cut/paste it.

[hilbert]

Finally, three 1/4" packing rings inserted.
Much of the difficulty had to do with the inaccessible location. I could not clearly see what was going on and I could only reach in with one hand.
Anyway, lesson learned and it should be an easier job next time.