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Custom-made Stuffing Box Wrench


Ralph D. Stetson wrote in the December 1986 Mainsheet:

The problem with the stuffing box on the prop shaft is that it's hard to get to, the space around it is limited, and the adjusting nut is often seized by corrosion to the lock nut. Needless to say, special tools are required so that you don't tear up the rubber hose housing.

drawing of custom-made stuffing box wrench A machine shop can, using 1/8 to 1/4 inch cold rolled steel, cut the two (2) wrenches. The overall length is 8". The angle between the jaws is important, but does not need to be precise. Roughly 15 degrees is required. Lay out the design on light cardboard and cut it out. The dimension "X" on the sketch must be free to fit easily on the faces of the nuts. Squeeze the handles together to loosen.

On my boat, #298, Spi-Sea, the prop shaft and the rudder post have different size nuts, so I made a pair of wrenches for each.

It should be noted that these wrenches can also be made of aluminum.
This Old Boat book cover This Old Boat by Don Casey

Subtitled "turn a rundown fiberglass boat into a first-class yacht on a shoestring budget," this book is the best introduction I know boat maintenance for the new or prospective owner of a "modern classic" sailboat. Starting with guidelines for selecting a boat, Casey proceeds to fiberglass repairs, cabin and deckwork, spars and rigging, boat equipment, woodwork, electrical, plumbing, refrigeration, painting, canvas work and sails. All of this is described in clear, simple terms perfect for the inexperienced. This is the book that taught me fiberglass work. But don't let it fool you; this book is appropriate for experienced boatowners, too. I still refer to it.

Other books by Don Casey

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