[Alberg30] Stuffing Box Hose

J Bergquist j at ship.saic.com
Mon Dec 9 12:43:44 PST 2002


Calvin,

I did not shim the stuffing box. My stuffing box was doggone close to 
1.5", and with 2 hose clamps, it was plenty tight (no leaks so far, and 
I am knocking on wood as I say this, since the boat is currently in the 
water and it's pretty cold here...)

As far as putting the fiberglass on the stern tube, I did it in two 
separate applications. I cut the tape to length and width before mixing 
the epoxy, and test-fit as a dry run. My experience with epoxy is that 
it's best to have everything well planned out before you even put on the 
gloves. Also, have some rags handy, you're sure to spill some. It's a 
contortionist act just getting back there. I hope your engine is out. 
That makes it much easier.

I applied the glass in two wrappings. I think each of them went around 
the tube 2 times. It was 6-oz tape, I think. I found that if you go for 
more than 2 wraps, things start to slide around, and it's better to let 
the epoxy kick and come back and put on some more. This allows you to 
carefully control diameter as well. Be sure to wet the tape out before 
you put it on, apply epoxy to the tube, and then squeegee the whole 
sheboing. It takes a little finesse, but should come out well if you're 
careful.

Now that I think about it, if I did it over again, I would put it on one 
wrap at a time. it will take longer because you have to wait for it to 
kick before you can apply the next layer, but it will give you more 
precise control over the final OD. Also, it will reduce the likelihood 
that you'll mess everything up by trying to do too many wraps at once. 
If you have the time, i would do it thataway.

Good luck!

J Bergquist
Calliope #287
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