272LE getting under the wing-keel

[dennis young]

My 272 is still on its cradle but I am launching soon. Problem: How to get under the wing-keel to clean it and paint with anti-fouling. Is it Ok to jack up under front part of the keel? Would that put too much stress on the rear of the hull resting on the cradle? It would be nice to sail without half a ton of muscles clinging to the underside.

 

[Bob]

Wait until it's in the slings...

...and then do the keel and any other areas you can't get at. The problem with jacking it up by the keel is you have to be able to keep the stress equal on both sides. If the boat slips in the cradle you could very easily bend or break a wing.Just my two-cents (US)Cheers,Bob

 

[dennis young]

No Sling

Bob: Thanks for the warnig. We have no sling; just a slip to submerge cradle and all. I will find a marina where I can rent slings and use some long lasting anti-fouling.

 

[Bob Todd]

Launch first...

...and then take it to a marina with a travelift and do a short haul to finish the bottom work while it's hanging. Ablative paint doesn't have to be dry to splash.Cheers,Bob

 

[dennis young]

Thanks

Thanks Bob for your helpful suggestions over the past seasons. Seems it's the only solution that is without risk.