I have played and tested many packing materials. The graphite was more expensive, and did not hold up well, and needed constant servicing throughout its tenure. I am by no means denouncing graphite packing, only relaying through experience, it does not work as well as the wax roped packing in the inboard industry. South Eastern Foundries, makes a water cooled dripless packing gland, they are located in N.C.. You can call SkiersChoice for thier #. The durability and replacement costs of the wax rope, and ease of maintenance, to me, are worth staying with O.E.M.Brian Raymond