Wrench of choice

[Butarsky]

I need to swap out my shaft packing.  It’s a 2000 sunsetter vlx.  All of my wrenches that are big enough to loosen the nut are a bit long to get into the space…. I sure I can make something work but thought maybe someone has conquered this with finesse already…..

[wdr]

Go buy the cheapest no name correctly sized wrench you can find and cut it to length. You will most likely need it again. 

[oldjeep]

This is the one that I use - along with a channel locks.  No issues with the space on the RLXI that I did last month - but there is more space on a direct drive.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016OK8QNM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Might be a good time to upgrade to a dripless setup

Edited August 24, 2021 by oldjeep

[BlindSquirrel]

I did the harbor freight wrench cut, works well. Pretty sure it's 1 13/16 size.... Also grab the pick set for a couple bucks while you're there. You'll need it.

 

Edited August 24, 2021 by BlindSquirrel

[Murphys]

I purchased two anodized aluminum shaft packing wrenches from Bakesonline.com years ago. They were pricey but well worth the money. I also bought slip joint wide jaw pliers similar to what @oldjeep posted. The handle is a bit too long to access the packing nuts on our v-drive, buts works well on our direct drive. 

 

Shaft Packing Wrench Custom 1-7/8 inch with Malibu Logo (bakesonline.com)

[Chaabo]

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=York+Shaft+Packing+Wrench&ref=bl_dp_s_web_0

Just pick the sizes you need.
Great tools!

Edited August 24, 2021 by Chaabo

[hmh800]

I also cut up a 1 7/8 combination wrench that had been hanging on the wall of my shop for 20 years.  Left from old job.  Cut a slot in the closed end, and had both needed wrenches.  And no teeth marks from using vise grips/ channel locks.