Frozen Keel Bolt: C22

[Curtis]

Hello fellow Catalina Owners!I just bought a 1975 C22 and noticed that there is a bolt under the forward port seat that goes through the centerboard well. It is my understanding that one tightens this bolt while sailing to prevent the centerboard from slamming into the hull in a seaway. My bolt is corroded to the point of not moving (It is in the loose position). I am not sure what the bolt looks like on the end that is in the water. Can it just be loosened by force or what. Should I order a special "keel bolt" (if that is what it is even called) or can I just use a stainless steel bolt that is the same size. If anyone out there has ever had to deal with this part on their boat I would sure appreciate some guidance. I am aching to go sailing, but I really want to resolve this so as not to jeapordize the hull.Thanks in advance,Curtis

 

[Ed]

Keel locking bolt fix

Curtis I had the same problem with my catalina22. Best to work on this with the boat out of the water on the trailer, or better yet on stands so you can lower the keel completly. Still not easy. Soak the bolt from both sides with LIQUID WRENCH or a similar penetrating oil. To get to the inside of the keel trunk you will need a gun cleaning rod to hold a piece of cloth soaked with the Liquid wrench. It will take several applications and you will have to put some force on it. I think Catalina used a few different style bolts over the years; so the tool to use will depend on that. Remember to go both ways try to loosen the bolt then try to tighten it. When you get a little motion soak it in the Liquid wrench again & take a break! Let the Liquid wrench have some time to work; you don't want to shear that bolt!Call CATALINA DIRECT at 1-800-959-7245 for a replacement bolt (part # D1083 I think) Good Luck!

 

[Noah]

It could be bent

Curtis,You will want to do this out of the water. Mine was/is still bent. It got bent because of the raising and lowering of the keel over the years with it screwed in. I can now turn it a few times either way, but it will never come out. I keep mine in the water so I will be planning a time to remove the bolt and also work on the pivot pin. I will need access from below to cut the bolt. Easier said than done it bet. I sail in the ocean and don't feel I will ever hit bottom so I'm not too worried about the keel slamming the ground and then the keel trunk area. I also don't heel over too much. At least not yet. Again I will be fixing soon.