Differences in models

[sail235]

In my search for a ~26' macgregor I'm getting confused by the different models 26d, 26c, and 26s. I've looked at the models on this website and see very little difference. Anyon car to enlighten me and is one better than the other ?Thanks

 

[MArk]

Old MacGregor 26W

Hey sail235,The confusion comes from the fact that there has never officially been a 26D, 26S or 26C. Prior to the 26X, MacGregor's only 26 foot model was the "W" which was just called the 26. (see related link)MacGregor made 2 versions of the 26. From 1987 to 1989 the 26 had a dagger board. This version is unofficially referred to as the 26D (for dagger board) or 26C (for classic once the "X" came out). From 1990 to 1995 the 26 had a centerboard. The centerboard version is unofficially called a 26S (for swing keel, which it doesn't have!) or 26C (for centerboard or classic once the "X" came out)Both had the same dimensions, sail plan, displacement, water ballast capacity and 26M cabin plan but without the head room of the 26M (except for the pop-top area).If anyone has sailed both the dagger board and centerboard versions and can comment on the differences in sailing characteristics, that may shed light on why MacGregor went back to the dagger board on the 26M or if that was a mistake.Happy (fusion powered) sails *_/),MArk

 

[Jerry]

Define "Swing"

I don't know about other Mac 26s, but my keel does "swing" up into the hull of the boat, and down into the water for stability under sail.Now, is it a true lead-weight, swing keel like on the Mac25, etc... no. The balast, to keep it upright, comes from the water the holding tank.From what I can tell, the 26d has a better rudder assembly. I know that my 26s is a bit wambly to steer. Nothing major- once you are used to it.Either one, at a good price, is worth it. Wife and I have had hours of fun. What's a good price? We got ours at Lake Lanier, GA for $6000. Overall, about $8,000 to 10,000 is average good price.

 

[MArk]

SK vs CB

Jerry,The definition I go by for "swing keel" is the same as that used by the author, Tom Wood. (related link) I know some boats have ballast in both the hull/fixed keel and the retractable fin but, the M25 which has no ballast other than the swing keel and the 26S which has all its ballast as water both fit these respective definitions well.Ask anyone who's come close to losing a finger from a runaway swing keel winch and they'll agree that there really is a difference.Happy sails *_/),MArk

 

[Jerry]

Dear Mark

I can agree with your idea of a swing keel having the winch, and the weight. That's why I tossed in the comment about a Mac 25. True, winched, swing keels are a pain. They take up too much cabin room too.However, for the novice, ie the person who wrote the question, they need to understand that the keel of the 26s does "swing" up into a holding area of the hull of the boat. And, it's out of the way. The rope and pulleys are under the sink area. THUS- good floor room.Thanks for the extra info, MArk. -Jerry