Need stuffing box help -

[Lured Away]

How do you determine the correct number of rounds for the packing box? Pulled 2 out but believe was also wrong size of 5/16 vs 1/4 for 1.5" shaft.

Thanks

[CaptD]

take the old pieces to have it sized as it will probably appear bigger ..two plus wraps 3 if you can get it and you alternate the joints.. meaning you cut one wrap and fit it exactly around the shaft and then the next piece joint is on opposite side.. do not try to wrap continously.. if unsure about size buy 2 sizes as they are fairly cheap especially when laying in bilge..if it seems impossible to stuff in and get nut on a couple of turns you either have wrong size or too much..re packed my rudders last year and they are fairly simple but shaft logs are a little trickier do not make too tight or it could sever the belows..good luck