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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.
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.
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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
(Note: commissions earned from this link help defray the costs of this website)
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