Hi Mike, I have a 2012 21EC and am doing the groundwork in case I need to replace the packing in the stuffing box. I am currently looking at adjusting the drip rate which seems too much, but it appears the stuffing box has never been checked since new and loosening the lock nut is a challenge as many 21EC owners have found. You are correct the propeller shaft is 1 inch but I am confused regarding the packing. Many posts on Tugnuts going back 10 years say that ¼ inch packing is required not 3/16 in? Also previous posts say the RT advice is to check with Marine Hardware for the correct size of packing since this is where RT source all these parts. Marine Hardware produce a traditional stuffing box for a 1 inch shaft but it takes ¼ inch packing? Another post recommends measuring the gap in the stuffing box to be sure - makes sense but difficult. Obviously important to have the right size packing before removing old packing. Grateful if other 21EC owners who have explored this can throw some light on the issue. As background there is a great deal of very useful information and good advice on Tugnuts about adjusting the stuffing box, replacing the packing, type of packing, when to change (if ever), drip rates etc. Thanks everyone.
