C22 Cracks at mast step and keel board maintenance

[Greg]

I have been looking at a used C22 (89)that was in great condition except for 2 things that bothered me while inspecting the boat. 1. There were cracks in the gelcoat at the mast step. Is this something that occurs on most C22s? These cracks were bigger than made me feel comfortable. Could it be a potential problem?2. My boat will be in salt water and the boat I inspected was always in fresh water. The keel board was corroded and peeling. Would I be better off with a wing keel for salt water so I would not have to deal with pivot pins and cable maintenance?Replies would be appreciated as I continue my search.

 

[mg]

no not normal

i passed 4 boats with those cracks at the mast. ive seen tons of 22s and only a few with the cracks. i suspect someone had problems when stepping the mast and screwed it up. i went with a wing for ease of maintainance. i had a board boat in salt and it was a pain to clean out barnicles in the trunk, at the time i said keel boats from now on. i have an 89 wing now and love the boat. seems slow to turn when motoring but sails with a well balanced helm . if it was me , go with the wing and forget the swing keel. good luck

 

[Kenn]

Cracks at the mast not normal unless hairline

The previous owners probably tensioned the stays incorrectly causing excessive tension in the mast area. I'd stay away from it. Also, the swing keel will require yearly attention in salt water. Might want to consider fixed or wing keel. Good Luck

 

[Greg]

Thanks for the feedback Kenn and MG

Thanks for the prompt response from the two replies. It is good to have confirmation of what your gut feelings tell you. I will continue my search for a wing or fin keel with no cracks at the mast step.