Rudder packing

[Painkiller]

I have a small leak around the rudder and assume it is the packing. Do I need to be concerned about this as it is the start of the boating season in Michigan. Will it last and does it just gradually get worse as the packing gets worn? Can I tighten the nut and will that reduce the leakage? Thanks.

 

[Snapon24]

It will gradually get worse. You can try tightening the packing nut some more and it should stop. If that doesn't work then you will need to replace the packing. Not that bad to do depending on access.

 

[dtfeld]

Pretty easy job...Covered here a couple weeks ago.

http://clubsearay.com/index.php?threads/rudder-packing.97083/#post-1117628

Also a video on how to do this, and this is pretty accurate to what most Sea Ray have installed.

 

[Golfman25]

Tighten the nut. Should stop. Unless you have been doing it regularly you should still have room to tighten.

 

[R-and-R]

I would try to tighten a bit and see if you can get through the season. Then save the re-pack for a winter project.

I'm guessing your 420 will have a lot more working room than my 340. Mine were a real PITA to access. I ended up removing all the steering linkage and rudders. Justified by getting the rudders refurbished since both were slightly bent.

G/L

 

[Painkiller]

Thanks everyone. Quite honestly I have never changed the packing but after seeing the video I think it will be a easy job. I will tighten first and replace second.