How to - Replace Rudder Packing

Figured I would document the process for others since I was needing to put new rudder port packing/grease in the SS today. I had recently gotten a new steering cable and the steering just didn't feel to good still, and after seeing how dried up and nasty the prop shaft packing was I figured the rudder's packing was most likely in similar shape. So hopefully this helps some of you!

First, on my '97 Super Sport, the rudder packing I used is 3/16". I chose to use the standard wax packing rope as that is what the local dealer stocks and it was cheap and I'm on a tight budget AND I don't like waiting for things.

1.) First thing you want to do is remove the prop-guard on your trailer. If you don't have a removeable one, leave your boat short on the trailer so that your rudder can be pulled all the way out.


2.) You can use blocks, or a floor jack to support the rudder from the bottom. This is an important step! You'll wish you didn't skip this step when you remove the rudder securing bolt later.

3.) The tools you will want to have. That weird looking wrench in the middle can be found in the plumbing section of your local HD or Lowes. It is one of Pete's favorites! It's actually a really handy tool for this project in getting the packing nut off. (It's really a basin nut wrench for under the sink)


4.) Cut the safety wire and remove. Next, unbolt the clamp bolt and then the bolt on top of the rudder shaft. (this is where you will wish you had the rudder supported if you forgot to, it will most likely fall out.)


5.) Now you can stretch, I chose to get back under the boat and drop down the rudder. There was no grease left and it was really dry. Most likely the source of my steering problem. Use some good marine grease and give the shaft a nice thin layer of grease.


6.) Here's where that funky wrench is a lifesaver. Loosen the lock ring and then remove the packing nut. Lefty loosy on my v-drive, I assume it is the same for DD's. Once you get the packing nut all the way off you will need to remove the old packing rings. Mine had 4 rings. Don't discard them, you'll need to keep at least one and use to cut your new packing rope to length. This makes it easy. Here is what the old stuff will look like. 2 rings removed, 2 still in the nut:


7.) Make sure to clean all the excess wax/buildup inside the packing nut, then put your new rings in. Make sure to stagger them. (I chose to run each 180 degrees different from the one below.)

8.) My rudder log didn't have a zerk fitting so I hand-loaded some more marine grease from the top, then re-inserted the rudder back in. Clean the excess off and then install packing nut. Leave it somewhat loose at this point.

9.) Grease both sides of tiller arm washer and re-install that, then replace tiller arm. Snug down top-bolt but do not overtighten. It just needs to be snug enough to hold the rudder in place. Too tight and it will affect your steering. Re-install clamp bolt.

10.) Put some new safety wire on in between the rudder bolt and clamp bolt, twist up and snip off the excess.


11.) Tighten up the packing nut. It isn't as big a deal here as it is on the prop-shaft packing as there is little to no worries of overheating, but you don't want too tight. That's it! You will probably have to re-adjust the packing nut after your first trip on the water, after that you should be good.

All in all about a hour and a half. But one thing lead to another and then I ended up cleaning my bilge, center locker, removed dash pod, installed amplifier, tower speakers, and wired everything up. I was in the driveway all day. I love days like today, I feel so accomplished! hahaha!

I love DIY's!!
We need more of them here...
On my BMW forum, we have a separate DIY section. Very helpful.
Maybe something for CCF?

Nice job and thanks for the write up. It will come in handy.

Did mine last week. Added the grease zerk (even though without an o ring seal it will eventually wash out; made me feel good).

Great Post Thank You !

Mine on my 89 SN 2001 measures up at a quarter so its now In 5 yes 5! rings came out so I have put 5 back in here is the piccie Is there any minimum thread engagement here a.k.a the propseal I think there is adequate engagement here I will count the number of turns any views??
Boyd

James - curious about your post. I also have a 89 SN 2001 and am waiting on my rope to repack. It doesn't look like you have a lot of threads left - I'd be inclined to go with 4 rings. Let me know how it turned out with 5 - do you already have it back on the water?

any chance you could reload the images?