Tom, the original packing is indeed cork, which tends to dry out and crack. If you replace the cork seal with a National #327 "O" ring. National part # 622730. The dimensons of the rubber "O" ring are 3/16" thick, with an I.D. of 1 3/4" O.D. 2 1/8" you can usually find these at most any bearing house for under a dollar. Be sure to place the "O" ring between the two steel packing retainer washers. Made this change on my 29 several years ago and just a few weeks ago on my 41 1/2 ton and haven't had a leak since.
