Bilge cracks

[vinicius]

I'm interested in buying a catalina 27 and found cracks in the bilge around the bolts and washers, is that normal? Some washers are deep into the coat... Would that be an indication of damage to keel? Thanks!

 

[jybiom]

Check the archives

this type of question has been answered many times and you should find real good answers. Good luck

 

[Chris]

Don't panic...

...yet. It could be very normal, especially depending on age.

Have you seen the boat out of the water to check for a "Catalina Smile"? That'll give you an indication of what's going on. Some older 27's have separation between the keel and hull at the leading edge. Most of the time this is fairly easily repaired with some epoxy and maybe adding a keel bolt.

Any chance you have a picture of the cracks?

 

[vinicius]

photo of bilbe

No, I haven't seen her out of the water yet.
I'm going to try to attach a picture, many thanks for your attention.