Keel Problems

[Rick]

I have a recurring problem, apparently chronic from what I've heard of other O'Day 22, fixed-keel owners, with a hull crack on the bottom just forward of the keel. I've had it repaired twice, the last time by a very reputable fiberglass guy, but generally the first time I crack down on a big wake (or wave) the crack reopens. Has anyone found a solution to this problem?My thoughts are to extend the taper of the keel 12-18" forward with glassed-in marine plywood to reinforce this area. Any ideas?

 

[Justin - O'day Owners' Web]

Why is the boat flexing?

Rick -Is the crack enough to admit water? When you hit the wave does the boat start flooding? It sounds to me like the hull is flexing and the non-flexible keel is detaching. I would start by checking the keel attachment to make sure everything is secure. Then I would want to know why the boat is flexing so much. The problem with the course you suggest is that you are only going to redistribute the problem. Unless you do something about the flex, adding an additional ridgid piece of keel to the flexing hull won't solve it.How big is the crack? Would it be possible to use something like 3M 5200 to seal it. That way you have some give when you go over waves.I would ask your glass guy about that. Good luck.Justin - O'day Owners' Web

 

[Rick]

Not Flexing

There is no evidence that the boat is flexing. The crack that repeatedly opens up is just forward (about 3") of the keel and in a semi-circle around the head of the keel. Years ago before I purchased the boat, I asked an experienced sailor about the 22 fixed-keel (1974). He said, "Good boat, but you'll have problems with the keel detaching." Sure enough 2-3 years later in some big wakes on the Chesapeake the crack developed. I think it's a simple matter of when that big flat hull cracks down, the 600 lbs of lead wants to keep going, and there isn't enough fiberglass in certain areas to take the stress. The leaks are not show-stoppers; 1 to 1-1/2 gal per week tied up at dock and a bit more when I sail. But its annoying, she's a good tight boat with no deck leaks and normally the bilge is bone dry.Rick; 'Solace'/Apollo Beach, FL