Valve Stem Packing

Cyclone33 · January 18

Hi everyone — I have a Trane vapor system and I’ve been using graphite valve‑stem packing in the shutoff valves. The problem is that it starts leaking again after about a year, and I end up having to repack it. Is there a more reliable packing material or a better long‑term solution for this type of valve? Thanks in advance.

Intplm. · January 18

Have you pulled the old packing out then replaced with new?

Maybe try this teflon type packing?

Cyclone33 · January 18

yes, I remove all the old with a pick.

Thanks, I’ll give that packing a try

mattmia2 · January 18

are you replacing it every time or are you adding more? it will compress until it reaches a certain density and the bigger gaps get filled in so you might just need to add more every once in a while until it gets to a certain density. if it is the type that is compressed with a spring and a washer vs a packing nut it might help to use a socket or piece of tubing or something and a small hammer to help pack it in there.

there are all sorts of packing cord you can get from mcmaster carr.

teflon is more durable than impregnated string. the shaft needs to be smooth and ideally free of pits and ridges where the packing rides on it.

Pumpguy · January 19

Try Ace Hardware's #40209 twisted graphite packing. It's quite different from the type you show.

I use and recommend this type for the float switch pivot shaft stuffing box on old condensate pump tanks.

Valve Stem Packing

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