Irwin 45 swing keel question

[The Schwartz]

Hello, I am in the process of buying a 1973 Irwin 45 sloop and have some questions about the swing keel.The owner at some point removed the hardware that raised and lowered the swing keel. This means that the swing keel must just stay in the down position (unless it hits something). I would like to know what was originally there.I have been unable to find information on this model but found a specifications sheet for a newer Irwin 43 on irwinyachts.com. The Irwin 43 came in 3 keel configurations:1.) Shoal draft 4'11" draft. 2.) Fin keel 6'3" draft 3.) Centerboard 4'10" to 9'8" draft.So with the Irwin 43 does this mean that if one pins the centerboard in the up position that essentially you have a shoal draft keel and everything is fine?And then how might this apply to the 1973 Irwin 45?Does anyone have any experience with this?Thanks for any assistance,Steve

 

[Randy]

Essentially

Essentially, I believe you're right. She should sail that way safe enough. However , with the increased sail area of the 45 over the 43 she will probably tend to be a bit tender and not go to weather very well. That's probably why he pinned it in the down position....gave up a little speed downwind for comfort.

 

[The Schwartz]

What was originally there?

Thank you Randy for your response and reality check.That information is good but what I really want is to be able to raise and lower the swing keel. Does anyone have a diagram of the stock 1973 Irwin 45 swing keel and it’s actuating hardware? Or possibly a diagram of a similar Irwin?Thanks,Steve

 

[Dana]

Swing keel on 45

Steve, i ownn a comp. 37 irwin with a 7875lb straight fin keel. Although your irwin 45will go to weather better with the swing keel extended to 9'8 your giving up nearly 5ft. of water.Depending where your at,or where you plan to cruise to this could be a huge problem. I believe most of these keels were mechanical with a hand and a stainless wire connecting to the swing portion of the keel.I have no drawings of that but i'm sure it would be very very similar to a swing 43. Thanks much Capt. Dana

 

[The Schwartz]

Irwin 45 progress

Capt. Dana, thanks for the info. Gene Gammon sent me good drawings - see this link:http://www.angelfire.com/fl/irwinsailboats/drawings.htmlThe boat is at the yard now and they will determine the best way to go. The plan is to reattach a cable from swing keel to delrin rod and then deal with it on the inside. Maybe just hold it in place at 6' draft for now. I'll know better when we determine just what is there.Marco, It is good to know that there is another Irwin 45 out there I was beginning to wonder.I will send you email directly.Steve