76 Searaft Inboard Stuffing Box

[fishlips56]

Good morning. New to inboards, so learning as I go. Do any of you know the size packing material used on a 1976 Seacraft inboard. I believe the boat is in it's original configuration, with a 1993 350 Mercruiser and a 1.5 : 1 Borg Warner transmission. Any tips on replacement while the shaft is in the boat. Limited space, but looks like I might be able to access through the small deck hatch behind the console without removing the rear deck hatch. Eventually I want to recore/reinforce the large deck hatch to achieve the original contour, so is it better to just go ahead and do it now? I will probably have to replace the trust bearings next.

Thank you for your assistance,

Barry