Changing the Keel

[Don Krause]

Recently moved to West Florida...Tarpon Springs area...challenge..My boat has a 5'4" draft so we are very tide dependent in these waters..really need 4' draft..Question? Anyone have experience with changing the Keel or cutting it down to 4'? Engineering problems!?

 

[Don K.]

Hello Don Krause

Hi DonThis is Don K from RRPC. I don't know the answer to your keel question but here is a good link where you might get your answer. Try boatdesign.netDon K.Friend ShipChrysler 26

 

[Steve Dion]

Contact Mars Metals

Don:I would suggest that you contact Mars Metals and have them work on the design for a modified keel.They can make torpedos that will bolt on to the sides of your existing keel and then you could cut off the area below the torpedos.I got a quote to add a little additional ballast to my H31 and it came in around $1800.

 

[Alan]

DIDO Mars Metal

As a racer I cringe at the thought of shortening draft, however there are times (I guess) when it must be done. I went the other way and had my draft increased. Kevin at Mars Metal was very helpful in designing me a new keel. I know that they also produce add-on bulbs for boats that want to decrease draft. Very helpful and knowledgeable folks to do business with.

 

[Gord May]

http://www.marsmetal.com

It would not be wise to merely cut off the bottom of your keel to reduce draft. This would assuredly have deleterious effects upon the boat’s safety & performance.Mars could engineer and cast a new, reduced-draft keel, or torpedoes; but this would be quite expensive.# http://www.marsmetal.com/