Catalina 25 Keel rust

[Andrew P Thibaudeau]

I have a 1982 Catalina 25 that has a large bulge on the keel caused by rust. The bulge is open at the top and is 6 inches across by 8 inches down. I alsofound that there are small areas (nickel size) on that side of the keel that are soft and when I press on them rust colored water comes out. Could you recommendthe best way to go about fixing this problem. I really want to do it right so I don't run into the problem again. Any help would be greatly appreciated.Thanks

 

[Bob Schuetz]

Keel rust

Andy,I also have a 25 (1981 or 82) with some rust on the keel. It has not progressed to the extent (yet) that you reported for your boat. I have sanded my rust spots to the bare metal and filled with Evercoat Formula 27 filler. Next I will sand and prime with maybe VC Tar Barrier Coat Epoxy. This approach is routine. Your situation sound more involved.I'm thinking that you may have either an advanced case of corrosion or a crack. You did not mention about your keel bolts but I have been told that sometimes a "Catlaina smile" will develop where your keel attaches. I don't know if there is a relationship to your problem or not. At a minimum I would sand to the bar metal and see if I have a crack or is it just corrosion. Did your keel smack anything this last sailing season?