Sealed replacement rudder packing box

[SG]

I have a continuous leak in my 2005 SV 211 rudder and a rattle through the steering wheel at top speed so thought the rudder stuffing box just needed tightening. It appears that the plate on the bilge side is cracked on both sides between the 4 bolts. I have read on this forum that this is common and caused by the cast bronze plate being bolted down on an uneven surface. Would insufficient grease cause the rattle? I can feel some play in the rudder when I pull on it.
When I pull the boat for the season, the plan is to replace the cracked plate and repack the rudder. Does anyone know if there is an upgraded, no grease, stuffing box replacement for theses boats. I have a sealed shaft seal and it would be nice to have a sealed rudder as well since the boat is on a buoy. Thanks

[SG]

After doing further research it doesn’t look like there is a dripless rudder seal, however, if I replace the packing and adjust properly it shouldn’t leak at all.
Also, I haven’t found just the top plate on the rudder port, it looks like you have to buy the whole thing for $550 at Nautique Parts, so I won’t be replacing the plate.
I’m pretty sure the rudder packing has never been replaced so hopefully repacking will take care of the leak and the rattle. I’ll let you know…

[SilentSeven]

As a longtime board participant I can say there really aren't many rudder box posts.

FWIW, my 1600 hour '97 Ski Nautique had a decent rudder box leak that I didn't have time to address before I sold it. My plan was to disassemble and repack. I was half expecting to find some wear and was ready to purchase new bits as needed.

Sooo...I think you're going in the right direction with your plan. Take some pictures and post them - we need more posts on rudder maintenance.