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What's the proper packing size for 1.5" shaft?

R

rmm

Regular Contributor
What's the proper packing size for 1.5" shaft? Found a roll of 5/16" previous owner appeared to be using but my research is indicated 1.5" should use 1/4" packing. I heard about how to measure but the nut is loose on the shaft and thinking be hard to get exact measurment as close b/w 1/4 and 5/16'

Boat is a 1988 31' Tiara.

 
Depends upon the specific stuffing box.

Mine has 1.5" shafts and a common Buck Algonquin stuffing box...uses 1/4" square packing.

If you think the 5/16" stuff has been run in it, it may be worth taking the time to measure the shaft, to check for excessive wear.
 
Thats one of the reasons made me wonder, does look like a little wear but not sure if what i am seeing is normal. Going to try the drill bit trick on both sides and see what happens.
 
Here's my two cents for the drill bit approach:

Works fine if you have a set of three bits, for each size....most of the boxes are a bit sloppy and using one or two bits is subject to error, especially in low light or poor access situations.

I have a set of hardwood dowels - three of each size - that are just over 2" long. I use them to get a fairly consistent spacing around the shaft.
 
I have a 91 tiara with 1.5 shafts. It had a mess of 5/16 jammed on last ring mixed with 1/4 round too. Scott at tiara confimed 1/4 square. I need to look and measure too. I have some corrosion spots but the 1.5 on the gas 454s BW 1:1.8 are larger then needed. Since I switched to square teflon its been stable. My 2 cents.
 
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