I need help : Mac gregor 22 swingin keel problems

[alfred gamil]

Hi
I own a 1982 , 22 feet mac gregor and have some serious problems with my swinging kee
It hits alternatively the two sides of the center daggerboard case , I can feel and hear the knocking hard enough to be unpleasant and bad for the fiberglass
This happens when the boat is stopped ( dock or mooring) and swings sideways with a light wind . I would appreciate somebody's help

 

[AXEL]

I had a Venture 21 (early version of Mac Gregor) that did the same exact thing. In fact, it is very common with many swing keels. I had a friend with a Catalina 22 that did the same. Not much you can do. It should not be a problem. Just make sure your cable is in good shape.

 

[Bob Poff]

Have you checked the condition of your pivot bolt?

Or the supports for the bolt?
I vaguely remember it lying in holes on either side of the keel trunk. Perhaps they've worn enough to have room for the bolt to move. You should be able see by removing the covers on the trunk near the bulkhead.

I don't remember having that much of a problem of the keel thumiping with my 1984 Mac 22. But at one point decided to change the pivot bolt, just in case.

 

[OldCat]

Check Everything, Then...

Check all of the pivot parts, bolts, shaft, and bearings for looseness. For my Catalina, there is also a kit to add shims to the keel trunk and take out most of any remaining slop. While you probably can't find a kit for your boat, you could consider doing something similar. Perhaps it is worth some research on how to do it.

OC

 

[MrUnix]

I've owned three Mac's with swing keels and they all did the same thing. I agree that you should inspect the pivot bolt, bushings, washers, etc.. to ensure that they are not excessively worn or misshapen, but given the nature of the beast, I believe you will always have some degree of keel 'slap' regardless.

Cheers,
Brad