'02 Outback DD Shaft Packing

I purchased this boat in March '14. It's 12 years old & had 187 hours when purchased / still only at 210 hours (low for age). Boat runs great but is taking on too much water in bilge (pump goes off like clockwork every hour). From what I've read here & based on the boat's age I'm assuming I need to re-pack the shaft. Seems like most of the forum talk centers around V drives and dripless though. Does anyone have instructions on how to get to this area under the floor on the Direct Drive? I understand when complete it should drip approx every 30 seconds.

I have also noticed one of my rubber muffler flaps has begun to bend outwards away from the body. Could this also be a mode for water to be entering? The boat seems to run a little "heavier" for lack of a better term after a full day of skiing (probably have been using reverse too much as my 6 year old is learning to get her bearings).

All of your help is greatly appreciated! Thanks

Here is a step by step with pics to do the job. the floor should pop up behind the motor housing and pull out from under the back seat. reverse shouldn't do anything to make it take on water if you are you would see it in the bilge.

http://www.pbase.com/mainecruising/stuffing_box&page=3

water can't get into the boat via the muffler flaps. they're really not even needed. the connect to your exhaust, and in turn the exhaust riser. unless you had a leak at the muffler outlet.

If you need to change your packing, water gets in there. Also there is either packing or a grease fitting for the rudder.

Thanks! Great link! Much appreciated