After a winter of work we finally launched our new, to us, Nonsuch 26C. After motoring less than a mile to the mooring we discovered the shaft, (but not he engine) was very hot. The engine temp was also running at a steady 180 on the way and the engine purred nicely.
This Spring a local part time mechanic replaced the cutlass bearing, shaft and coupling, stuffing box and refurbished the prop. I am told the overheated shaft may be a problem with the stuffing box being too tight as there was no visible dripping or maybe the engine is slightly out of alignment with the shaft by 1/4 inch. We are going to try loosening the stuffing box nut a little and idle in reverse on mooring to see if that helps. In any event, I am having it towed in the harbor to the professional rigging company this week to have mast inspected and sail rigged and now have the engine given a professional going over. Wondering what I am in for. Any thoughts on the shaft heat and 180 running temperature would be gratefully appreciated. Thanks again for all your generous insight and input. This forum has been so very helpful.
Owners Manual pages 57.1 thru 57.3, propeller Shaft Log. My Universal M 25 Xp is a 3 cylinder 23 HP in my 1989 26C. My running temp is 165. 180 may be ok, but I don’t know your thermostat rating. But, a strict word of caution -don’ t motor too far as a too tight of a stuffing box will ruin a transmission. The OM says a drop of water every few minutes while the shaft is turning is a box that is properly adjusted! Bob Horne, 1989 N26C, ENCORE, Pocasset, MA.
Definitely loosen the stuffing box adjustment. Your boat should have come with the wrenches that fit the nuts. It’s better to have some water come in then none.
Joe Valinoti
S/V iL Gatto NS30U #221
Sea Harbour YC
Oriental, NC USA
Stuffing cord is now sold with Teflon and Teflon grease and there should be a little water flow
180 is the correct engine water temp for a W21.
Westerbeke manuals are available on line at