Taking on water

[jkallen21]

We took the boat out for the first time of the season today. I noticed the pump coming on a few times to pump water of the bilge. It’s not a ton of water and the pump clears it easily. But it’s more than has ever happened in years past. I made a video that you can see attached. I took the boat out but left water in the bilge to test.
I have never changed the rudder packing. Is that the problem here? If so, how hard is it to replace?
Thanks!

https://youtube.com/shorts/1Xe-eZy1QsI?feature=share

[charlesml3]

Yea, could be the rudder packing. It's a pretty simple fix. Drop the rudder out and clean out all of the old grease both inside the stuffing box and on the rudder shaft. New grease on both and it all back together. If you don't have stainless-steel safety wire, you can use solid-core copper wire.

-Charles

[ally505]

Does your rudder housing have a grease fitting? I'd be inclined to pump fresh grease in the first place, you should see the old grease push out a small hole on the underside. this can help with water ingress issues. But, as above, stripping down and re-greasing and inspecting/replacing the seal is the best option

if you are getting a lot of rudder movement and steering is stiff, the bearing surface may well be worn, I've had to replace a rudder housing in the past for this very issue.

[shag]

It could be as above, but if I remember right some boats in that era had poor seems between the hull and deck and were letting water in, especially on turns and if weighted for surfing. It would be along the sides in the rear area of the rub rail.

[Scooter G]

Nice video share Kallen, looks like you found your problem. Our last boat had a worn out prop shaft pack, it kept the bilge area nice and clean, lol.