Hunter 235 ... Center Board or Swing Keel?

[Hayden Jones]

Having just purcahsed a '93 Hunter 235 I am now beginning to question "stuff"? I have heard the keel referred to as a center board (ususllu light in wirht) and as a swing keel (ususlly much heavier. Which is it. I can't find any info on it. Also. has anyone ever cut off a foot or so of the keel to permit better pointing in shallow draft areas? Does the haul line pull up the keel or haul it down? I know that sounds stupid but this is my first adventure with a retractable keel and since it's on the trailer I'm at a loss..........Hayden

 

[Ken Koons]

240 owner responding

I have a 1998 240. The foil is indeed a swing keel. The rope pulls up (retracts) the board. It is difficult to raise on my boat and requires me to use the winch to raise it. I would not saw off any of the centerboard myself. If it's that shallow the rudder will hit soon after the centerboard.FYI -don't just free the rope and let the keel swing down. I've read previously on this site, damage can be caused.

 

[Dave Royce]

it is swing keel

I just had mine off. It sometimes easier to refer to it as a centerboard. It is heavy and you should keep it under control when raising or lowering. Also if you want to go into shallow areas you can put the swing keel in a partial up position.