Is it basically impossible to adjust the stuffing box nuts without taking the transmission out on a NS30? Mine seems to need adjustment and a retightening of the lock nut but I can’t figure out how to get enough leverage and space to loosen the two nuts. I’d need a ratcheting chain wrench or something.
My Cal 34 had the same issue.
I purchased two 12 PT box wrenches of the proper size.
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Cut a slot in the end to allow the passage over the drive shaft
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Tried both for a fit and cut the handle end as required
My wrenches finished at about four inches long
I replaced the Flax/Wax 1/4x1/4 with the new stuff containing Teflon
It has been there for years and has never needed adjustment
Fran Cichowski N30U #300
Noank CT
Our boat came with two stubby aluminum wrenches for adjusting the stuffing box nuts. You are correct, it was a royal pain in the $^^&%R$. But doable with the short wrenches, but it was a nasty task. That led me to install a dripples seal a couple of years ago, and it was well worth the money.
I bought a Stanley J3560 Thin Pattern Service Wrench 1-7/8" and Sunex 97750A 1/2" Dr. 1-7/8" Jumbo Crowfoot Wrench CRV from Amazon. I used the open end wrench on the nut and the crow foot on the stuffing box itself. What worked best with the crow foot was wedging to with a block of wood. The open end wrench fit but there wasn’t much of a swing. I had to keep flipping it 180º after every turn.
Bill Mortensen
NS 30U Summer Song
Mystic, CT