Keel Bolts....

[Marina]

In an article I read recently by Don Casey, he wrote,,,,,Stainless steel keel bolts are used extensively in lead keels. Except for being more compatible, galvanically, they face all the same problems, plus one more. In lead keels, the keel bolts are more often actually keel studs, cast in place when the lead is cast. They typically have an L or J shape inside the lead keel, so they cannot be extracted. And the part of the bolt in the keel cannot be x-rayed because it is shielded with lead.Are the bolts that hold the keel on a Hunter 1979 J shaped as well? If there is a space between the keel and the hull, can I fix this? If so, How? Marina.

 

[Ed Schenck]

'L' shaped?

Pretty sure my '79 has stainless 'L' shaped bolts imbedded in the lead. But you could find out for certain by calling Mars Metals, the people who made the keel. 1-800-381-5335 .My H37C had a small separation on the leading edge that ran back about twelve inches. I routed it out to clean it up and filled with 5200. That was five years ago and there has been no sign of further separation. I also tighten the keel bolts annually. I do not have a torque value, I just tighten with a 12" ratchet handle until I cannot budge it.

 

[Marina]

Wow...Answers to my Questions!

Oh man! Thank you so much for that phone number. There was a man there that answered all my questions about the keel and even bottom paint and hull construction. He told me not to worry. I could fill the gap, tighten the nuts and I would be fine for years and years. I should inspect every year for cracking. But you told me that you tighten every year. He said that this was not needed if your keel looks solid. He went on to say that it is normal for there to be a small crack especially in the leading edged of the keel between the keel and the hull. Sooner or later though, all of our Hunter keels will fail. Stainless bolts and lead are not compatible. So, in time, they will need replaced. Luckily, it will not happen soon. Salt water multiplies the negative affects of corrosion. Today, if the weather is warm enough, I will go out and inspect my keel junction again to see just what I need to do. By the way, did you guys know that the company I called makes most of the keels for all boat including all pleasure yachts and huge corporation ships? There web site is www.marsmetal.com Ed, you and I live pretty close. I sail out of Port Clinton Ohio. I drive up to Lake Erie often to do marine business and marine pleasures.Marina

 

[scott wilson]

Qs for Ed

Do you know the nut size on your keel bolts and how do you get a socket on the aft keel bolt nut( behind the aft bilge bulkhead)?Scott

 

[Marina]

Size of Keel Bolt Nut

I believe you have to use a rench on the two that are located most aft. That's how I did it. I do not know the size of mine. But I can let you know after I go to my boat next. Marina