It is important to understand the correct way to install and adjust your pump packing system. Understanding, or not understanding, how to do the procedure correctly could end in a success or failure. There are a few key elements to the procedure that will enable you to have a successful experience.

Remove Old Packing
The hardest step in the process is getting rid of old packing. It is important to get to the bottom of all the way down to the bottom of the stuffing box. If there is a lantern ring, make sure you remove that as well. There are normally sharp ends in the packing removal tools. Make sure that these ends do not puncture the shaft or any surfaces.

Inspect the Packing
After removal, it is time to check out the equipment of the condition. It is important that you record the time it takes to do this so that it will make the process smoother in the future if the equipment needs to be serviced. If there is visible wear on the surface, it should be resurfaced or replaced. The bore diameter also needs to be sealed.

Take Measurements and Observations
During the process, it is important to take measurements of the box depth, shift diameter, and bore diameter. If a flush injection has been used, you should then measure the length of the whole lantern ring as well as the flush port. A short wire will work to measure the location of the flush port.

Cut and Install
Once the previous process is done, the packing should be cut. Packing should be cut into ring sized pieces where the ends of the rings can fit together without a gap in between. Once the rings are inserted they should fit nicely into the bottom portion of the stuffing box. This will ensure that the load is compressed within the depth of the packing. There are different types of materials that can be used for tamping tools. Some of these materials include, but are not limited to, split tubing, metallic bushings, and certain types of cardboard. Do not forget to take these tools away before the next ring is put into place.

Adjust
For most situations with pump packing, it is imperative that there is some liquid leakage. This ensures that lubrication will cool the surface and add to the life of the seal. While you are adjusting the pump packing, be sure to try to come to the least acceptable rate of leakage. Overtightening the package is one of the most common ways to fail with the packing process. Any adjustment you make should be made in proportion to the rate of leakage.