how to remove rudder packing glands

[albinalaska]

good morning ,

looking for some insight on how to remove some packing glands on our lazarette in our trawler to inspect/clean them. is there some type of tactic or tool that others have found to serve them well in the past?

these are of questionable age, i’ve looked at PSS seals and other options but in the mean time would like to just clean/service these and move on.

mainly i’m concerned that in trying to pry them up from only one side at a time will cause damage.

thank you for any assistance!

 

[CharlieO.]

You’re going to take those nuts off and remove the collar first. Then pull the packing out and replace with new.

 

[Comodave]

I would not use a PSS in this application, not needed for a rudder. I would just repack it.

 

[Ken E.]

I would also repack what you have rather than change to PSS, providing you have reasonable access to tighten the packing nut in the future as needed.

I converted my boat to PSS rudder seals due to almost impossible access to the tightening nut on both sides. I ended up making a tool that would fit between the stringers but for my 70 year-old body, it was hard being a contortionist. The PSS seals have worked fine for several years now.

 

[albinalaska]

really appreciate all the responses! is if i sight down into the fitting it looks like vertical bands maybe a 1/4” wide lining the parameter of the opening. but i’ve not had experience with removing these before so is this just a pry and pray? or are there any pointers for removing the gland to get access to inspect the packing.

 

[Bmarler]

The rudder is already out, so the packing will easily come out. Just pull the gland and use a pick tool to grab them.
FYI, you can do them in situ as well. Easier if you get a packing removal tool. It’s got a flex shaft and little corkscrew end.
You can either measure the shaft and fitting to find the right size to put back in, or measure the packing itself. Just keep in mind the old packing will be deformed from use.
I like to cut my packing with 45 degree ends, like a scarf joint, then stagger the seams in the fitting.
Easy stuff to do,