When checking a water-lubricated stern tube bearing while underway, what should be checked for?

Correct Answer: Option C — Ensure that the stuffing box packing gland is taken up just enough so that the leakoff rate is a periodic drip.

Water-lubricated stern tube bearings depend on a continuous flow of seawater for cooling and lubrication. The shaft stuffing box packing gland must be adjusted to maintain a controlled periodic drip to lubricate packing without flooding bilges.