Stern Gland

[viva116]

This post is for owners of later gypsys that have a rubber seal for the stern gland as opposed to the traditional stuffing box and greaser. I have not been able to find any information on the seal in the manual or from Neil Thompson other than leave it be. Having had a rubber Deep Sea Seal fail on an earlier boat I am circumspect.

1 Does it require any maintenance?
2 Does it need to be "bled" of air after launching?
3. Has one ever failed and how does one check for deteriation?
4 Who is the manuafacturer?

thanks in advance

Roy

[Neal]

I share your concerns. My Gypsy also has a rubber "maintenance free" seal. In my case it is of the Volvo "dripless" type.
It was in the boat when I bought it.

I have no idea how old it is or how much life is left in it. I believe the Volvo ones should be replaced every 5 years. It feels very hard as though it's been there a while...

I'd be interested to know other owners thoughts on whether a dripless type seal such as mine, or whether sticking with the traditional stuffing box is preferred.

Which do other folks prefer?