Carver Owners Forum

I am looking for any insights into how to disassemble the night table/stand in the aft cabin of a 1997 Carver 355.

I am trying to gain access to the starboard rudder shaft stuffing box, which would be accessible, if the night table can be removed and subsequently re-installed.

If there is an alternative way to access the starboard rudder shaft stuffing box, I would also appreciate any insights into how best to do this without cutting through the wall of the aft head.

Thanks in advance!

Have you removed the drawers? I'm thinking once these are taken out you will be able to see how it's put together or gain more access to the area you need. My carver Is different than yours but similiar too. I know in my 1997 405 when the drawers are out I can see numerous screws that could be removed to disassemble this piece.

If its similar to my Carver 33 Aft Cabin, top drawer comes out completely, then you just lift the table lid off!!!

Thanks for the response.

Yes I have removed the drawer and the top of the side table also "pops" off.

I can see the starboard rudder shaft, but I can't access it (too large a human). I was hoping for some additional detailed information about which parts of the side table might be the more easy to remove. It seems to be built as a unit that could be removed. The side table's front panel is main barrier to being able to reach in far enough to touch the stuffing box and manipulate (tighten) the packing nut.

Pretty sure you can unscrew it from the wall and floor to gain better access. Let us know how it goes!

I also have a leaky starboard rudder post and just attempted to deal with it. I had a shop try a few years back and was not satisfied with it.

You will need to remove the board on the side of the bend. It the will come out as a unit.

To deal with the tight spaces I purchased a stuffing box tool Here: https://www.bakesonline.com/shaft-packi ... UvEALw_wcB

Still could not free to top nut and gave up (For Now).

Let me know how it works out for you.