|
You're probably correct that this has been going on for a long time but what you are seeing is the direct effect of continually tightening worn out flax attempting to manage drip. With fresh flax you'll be in better shape but do not expect to get an optimal adjustment against a scored shaft. It's gonna drip and if it doesn't you're likely too tight again. On the other hand, you risk nothing with this shaft, the damage has been done. Stuffing box temperature underway is a reliable method to monitor things. Consider 20°F above ambient water temp as the maximum allowable.
__________________
Neil
1977 Catalina 30
San Pedro, California
prior boats 1987 Westsail 32, 1970 Catalina 22
Had my hands in a few others
|