I have a SureSeal dripless prop shaft seal and it has just started to leak a bit when the engine is idling and there is a bit more engine vibration. Thankfully it's fine when the engine is in gear or off but obviously want to sort it out before either of those become a problem! It is well under the guaranteed engine hours but it's probably about 20 years old and I think the lip seal was last changed about four or five years ago which is well over the 2 year guarantee. It looks like an older model as the units on the tides marine website at the moment look a bit different.

http://www.tidesmarine.com.au/product.php?id=shaft

I'm thinking I will just replace it with the updated version of the same unit but thought I'd consult the brains trust here on whether there are any other things people would recommend first. Anyone got any advice on an improved replacement?

sirgallivant said..
I lubricate mine, rubber grease or similar, may be vaseline will do.
Tightening the clamps just a very little bit after lubricating it might stop the dribble.

..and if that doesn't work, maybe talk to a Urologist.......

Futurecruiser said..
Anyone got any advice on an improved replacement?

Yes! A conventional "Walker's Gland Seal".





This might seem primitive but they work. If you burnt out the packing and you are in a remote place, you could grease up some rag and stuff it with that and it will get you home.

"Dripless Seals" were originally designed for pumps in an industrial application and then somebody realized they could be sold to people with boats for more money. So before you buy a new dripless seal from a chandlers, see what you can buy from a pump or irrigation shop.

When dripless seals fail completely, there is no fixing them. They just gush water in.

But I am "old school". If your dripless seal has a two year guarantee, replace it every two years.

Tupperware is the answer ..........
Everybody knows why the walrus went to the Tupperware party !!!























He was after a tight seal !!