PK and RPG Series
Gland Style Rudder Ports (Stuffing Box)
Description:
Our heavy duty “gland style” rudder ports (rudder stuffing boxes) are the finest rudder shaft seal on the market.
Traditional rudder ports require frequent adjustment of the locking nut and are prone to cracking after only a few years from fatigue. These issues can be compounded after a repowering when even more stress is exerted on the rudder’s hardware. Our PK and RPG series of “gland style” rudder ports help solve these concerns by eliminating the locking nut and building a more robust housing.
Size and Selection: Scroll down this page for the sizing diagram of our PK and RPG Series rudder ports.
Note: Custom Sizes including Metric are available by special order.
Questions? Give us a call at 207-422-6532
Safety First
A Heavy Duty Solution
Traditional lock-nut stuffing boxes require frequent adjustment due to only one or two layers of thread engagement. Due to the limited amount of thread contact between the lock nut and packing nut, the nuts have a tendency to back off requiring frequent adjustment. This usually results in frequent dripping and a messy bilge.
Another issue with a conventional lock-nut rudder port is their tendency to fatigue and crack. Compared to a modern gland style rudder port, traditional rudder port stuffing boxes are longer and skinnier. Because of this extended height, traditional stuffing boxes are subjected to more stress as the rudder shaft shifts and bends from side to side. Over time, this stress is enough to crack the stuffing box housing rendering the vessel unmaneuverable and at serious risk of flooding. These issues are especially concerning to commercial vessels (fishing, passenger, etc.) that get heavy use.
Our PK and RPG series of gland style rudder ports eliminate both of these issues by completely eliminating the traditional locking nut and replacing it with a “gland” flange that is tightened and secured into place by four threaded bronze rods. Not only is this arrangement more secure and less likely to require frequent adjustment, it also allows for a much thicker base (stronger) and the inclusion of support gussets. As an added benefit, it can be adjusted with a simple box wrench instead bulky Stillson or pipe wrenches.
Selection and Installation:
Your Boat Deserves the Best:
Choosing the best rudder port or rudder stuffing box for your boat can be a daunting task, especially if you’re doing the work yourself (DIY). We’re standing by to walk you through the process.
Our gland style rudder ports are designed with the goals of safety and performance to give you the confidence and peace of mind you deserve. From commercial work boats, to recreational yachts circumnavigating the world, R.E. Thomas Marine Hardware’s rudder ports are up to the task.
If you’re looking for a new rudder port or rudder stuffing box remember this: The cheapest part is not always the least costly.
Specifications and Size Guide:
PK and RPG Series Rudder Port Sizing Guide:
