Packing nut / packing locking nut sizes

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FlyMeAway

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Fluid Motion Model
C-302 SC
Vessel Name
Beagle
What are the dimensions of the packing nut, and the packing locking nut, on an R-31 (2018 w/D4-300)?

Looking for exact dimensions as I would like to get wrenches that are precisely sized. My understanding from other threads is that these two are different sizes. Thanks!
 
knotflying":3teu7m37 said:
I personally prefer the ridged wrench https://www.ridgid.com/us/en/hex-wrenches You can add a pipe for leverage or tap with a hammer. It has always worked well for me.
Click to expand...

Yes, yes. I have a Rigid 110 at home for plumbing work. I would prefer not to carry two heavy 9 1/2" wrenches on the boat just for the special purpose. You can buy smaller, lighter-weight special-purpose wrenches for the same price. Also makes the setup a bit faster, easier, more idiot-proof (I have co-owners who are less mechanically inclined).

Edit: one E110 is probably multipurpose enough to get. But an E110 and a fixed size packing nut wrench are probably the way to go...
 
I to have two E110 wrenches but found them frustrating to work with. They don't take long to get rusty on a boat. Finally I asked a friend to cut me two wrenches out of a piece of stainless steel using a laser cutter. Little longer in the handle. Works perfect. If I were to do it again, I would use aluminum for the lighter weight but stainless is what I had.

Sorry Fly, can't help with the dimensions till tomorrow if someone else doesn't respond first. Nancy and I have a 2019 29-CB. I'm pretty sure sizes would be the same for you'r boat.
 
This sink drain wrench works well as the second wrench. https://www.grainger.com/product/2G...CKVRBkZtGet0gjFwxT0aAqkBEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds To answer the issue regarding rust on the ridged wrench a light coating of Sta-bil rust stopper works great. Also, my experience of using a spray of PB blaster the night before and then while being careful hitting the larger nut with a ball peen hammer near the corner (or use a punch with the hammer if your accuracy may not be good) on the larger nut cap gives just enough vibration and torque to loosen the nut and then apply the wrench.
 
In response to the original question: This morning I measured the two wrenches I had cut out of sheet metal and ran right into a conflict with the word "exact". The larger packing nut is 2 and 9/16. The narrow lock nut is a shave smaller. I remember my mechanic friend telling me when he put a mic to them that they were different. Not enough to notice with adjustable wrenches. 2 and 1/2 would work on the lock nut but probably a little loose. Most adjustable wrenches get used a little on the loose side anyway.
 
Correction on my last post. 2 and 9/16 would work on lock nut. Not 2 and 1/2
 
This is the wrench you need to break the lock nut free. You might need to attach a breaker bar to the handle of it if the lock nut is corroded tight. This wrench opens to 2-5/8":

https://www.amazon.com/RIDGID-31305-Wre ... B0009W9BT0

Also, you need to get this plumbing slip wrench to place on the adjusting packing nut to hold it in place while you break the lock nut free:

https://www.amazon.com/Adjustable-Wrenc ... lip+wrench

After the lock nut is free, use the slip wrench to make very, very small adjustments to the packing nut to get the right drip rate.
 
Years ago I had a packing nut I could not turn. Went to boat yard and mechanic asked for a hammer and gave it a few gentle taps then hand turned it. I was embarrassed it was so easy. It sticks and a little jar will free it.
Bill
 
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