keel bolt tightening

[j.r.brown]

should one routinely retighten keel bolts,and,if so,what would be the torqueing pounds and recommended tightening pattern? I have a 1983 hunter 31.Thanks to all.

 

[Sailgunner]

Not unless they are leaking. It is pretty difficult to do. It takes a lot of torque.

 

[McZube]

Does it matter whether the boat is in the water or on the hard resting on the keel?

 

[Ray Bowles]

With the keel setting on the hard it is much better on the bolts and you get a better reading. If the keel is unsupported the bolts are already stretched.