How should propeller “leakage / water seepage at the shaft seal” be addressed?

[zke61553]

When I inspected the stern yesterday, I found that water was constantly seeping from the shaft seal of the propeller (the gap where the propeller connects to the hull). The amount was not large but it kept dripping. It would also leak when the ship was stationary. Is it that the shaft seal is worn out or is there a problem with the shaft sleeve of the propeller? Should this situation be repaired immediately? Will it get worse and worse?

 

[dingbat]

Is it that the shaft seal is worn out or is there a problem with the shaft sleeve of the propeller? Should this situation be repaired immediately? Will it get worse and worse?

Could be either.
You will not know until you tear it down.

It will get worse….question is, how long until failure

 

[racerone]

Is it packing in there?----That can be adjusted to get the proper amount of leakage.----A mechanical seal should be replaced.----Pictures of your set up ?

 

[Grub54891]

I have to assume it’s an inboard. Where the shaft goes through the hull, that’s called a stuffing box, or some are called a drip less depending on the style that’s installed. Yes, some pictures will help with the diagnosis.