Porthole gaskets

[Voyager3]

I need some help on how to install porthole gaskets. I have 12” brass portholes with dried out gaskets. I found gasket material that was close to the original. I have it all cleaned out but having a heck of a time pushing the gasket into the slot. It is medium density with a hole in the middle. Does anyone have ideas! This should not be rocket science but geesh!!

 

[FF]

"close to the original"

The 12 inch ports usually require very little pressure to be water tight .

We use proper sized "old style" prop shaft packing , which is cheap and does the job.

Usually detergent (Joy) on the rubber will ease installation.

DO NOT stretch the gasket to ease access as over time it will return to its built length and there will be a gap between ends.

 

[Voyager3]

Thank you. Will give that a try.