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1930 Gemmer Steering Box Leak

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Jim Godlewski
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1930 Gemmer Steering Box Leak

Post by Jim Godlewski » Fri Sep 03, 2021 11:14 am

Should there be a gasket at the front between these two pieces shown in the middle photo or is there an internal seal? I've added penrite oil and it's seeping out.
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1956 17 Sportsman CC-17-2310
1930 Model 100 7152

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Bilge Rat
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Re: 1930 Gemmer Steering Box Leak

Post by Bilge Rat » Wed Sep 08, 2021 6:38 am

I cannot tell you if there's supposed to be a gasket there. I am only familiar with the later Gemmer steering boxes from the 50's. I can tell you that even with proper gaskets trying to keep the oil in is a challenge and no one wants oil in the bilge!

I have followed previous advice and substituted wheel bearing grease packed well into the worm gear and sector instead of oil. These steering gearboxes were taken from the auto and truck parts suppliers and because those vehicles had to be steerable in freezing temperatures, a heavy weight oil was used. Since our boats are not used in freezing temperatures, the grease remains viscous enough in warm weather and isn't prone to leaks.
1966 Lyman Cruisette 25 foot "Serenity Now!"
1953 Chris Craft Sportsman 22 foot "Summerwind"

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Jim Godlewski
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Re: 1930 Gemmer Steering Box Leak

Post by Jim Godlewski » Wed Sep 08, 2021 7:04 am

That makes good sense although my grease guns will leak too after a while of sitting. The penrite lube is very thick although not as thick as wheel bearing grease.
1956 17 Sportsman CC-17-2310
1930 Model 100 7152

trusert
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Re: 1930 Gemmer Steering Box Leak

Post by trusert » Thu Sep 09, 2021 6:22 am

Make a gasket. There are no clearance or spacing issues to be concerned with so why not?

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