Abstract: A method for limiting eccentric deviations of a rotating polished rod which extends through a stuffing box in a downhole rotary pumping application. The method includes the step of positioning below the stuffing box at least two centralizing members having arcuate contact surfaces that engage the rotating polished rod to dampen eccentric deviations. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided an apparatus having a housing with a central polished rod receiving passage. At least two centralizing members extend radially inwardly into the central polished rod receiving passage to engage a rotating polished rod positioned in the central polished rod receiving passage.

Abstract: A rod guide assembly for rotary applications has a stationary housing and a rotating housing. The stationary housing has an exterior, an interior, a first end and a second end. A primary stationary annular bushing is positioned in the interior at the first end of the stationary housing. The primary bushing has an interior bore. A bearing is provided having an outer race, and an inner race with an inner circumference. The outer race of the bearing is non-rotatably fixed to the stationary housing. A secondary annular rod guide is positioned in the interior at the second end of the stationary housing. Annular packing is disposed within the interior of the stationary housing to provide a fluid seal. The cylindrical rotating housing has an exterior, an interior, a first end and a second end. The exterior has a neck portion adjacent the second end. The neck is adapted to engage the inner circumference of the inner race of the bearing disposed at the first end of the stationary housing.

Abstract: An improvement in a stuffing box for a rotary polished rod having a tubular housing with first and second rod guides disposed at each end and packing elements therebetween. The lower rod guide is in the form of an annular bushing, and annular interior sealing elements are disposed at each of the ends of the bushing thereby effecting a sealing engagement between the internal surface of the bushing and the external surface of the rod. An annular exterior sealing element is disposed on the external surface of the bushing thereby effecting a sealing engagement between the external surface of the bushing and the internal surface of the housing, and bearing members are interposed between the rod guides and packing elements, each having an inner race rotatable with the polished rod and an outer stationary race.

Abstract: In well pumping apparatus in which a polished rod is arranged for extension through a stuffing box at the upper end of a wellhead, the stuffing box assembly having a pair of axially spaced bearing assemblies and packing coils positioned between rod guide members at either end of the assembly to guide the polished rod for reciprocal movement along a vertical path through the wellhead. Each rod guide member is composed of an inert material and provided with a liner portion occupying the annular space between an exposed end of the stuffing box and the polished rod in such a way as to retain alignment of the polish rod in its reciprocal movement through the stuffing box. In a modified form, the lowermost liner portion has scraper rings mounted in internal grooves to remove scale build-up on the polished rod, reduce packing wear and minimize leakage.

Abstract: In a well pumping unit of the type employing a polished rod, a stuffing box is disposed at the upper end of the wellhead which has axially spaced bearing assemblies, and packing coils positioned between a bearing section at either end of each assembly to guide the polished rod for reciprocal movement along a vertical path through the wellhead, each bearing section having annular portions connected together in end-to-end relation with one portion composed of brass and another portion composed of zinc which is capable of undergoing a reduction reaction with the oxygen present in the liquids and gases to effectively reduce corrosion of the polished rod.