Wow got my first boat into the water on Sunday on Lake Mead, what a beautiful day, 90 degrees and glassy, and then my friend wondered where the water was coming from (IMG:style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif) , Well things got worse from there but we got here back to the dock and loaded onto the trailer, and when we pulled her out the water was draining from the driveshaft/hull exit point, did some homework this morning and learned about the packing. Anyway as a NB if anyone would let me know what to watch out for in the future it would be appreciated. By the way the 1987 Hawke is fun, I had a good time with her while it lasted, she did get us back though and I was impressed considering how far away we were. Thanks in advance for any advice. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/good.gif)

I suspect you have already figured this one out, but I will never, ever, buy a boat without taking it for a test drive with the owner first.

Sorry, for the trouble you had, but I love your enthusiasm.

"A boat that don't float is an anchor."

You may already know but the packing is simple to replace. Just loosen the jam nut and the drive shaft collar and dig the old packing out which is just 2 peices of wax rope with a screwdriver or knife. Then rap the new around the driveshaft and and work it all the way down I have used a screwdriver just not one that is sharp. Put the seam on the 2nd peice opposite the first.

If the last owner was that good on up keep change the impeller out on the raw water pump.

Thanks WakeDoc and guys, I learned quite a bit on the maintenance forum, I appreciate all the advice and help you guys have sent, and I did change out the impeller and got a spare also per your advice. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/yahoo.gif)