Keel problems

[Thorp Thomas]

I visited my boat at the Yacht Club last week to see how it was faring the winter, what a shock when I looked at the keel. On the port side was a big bubble (about 12” in dia. protruding 2’) with a crack in it. I was shocked to see it and called the Hunter dealer right away. Here’s the story I got; the keel is first cast in the shape and size needed for the boat (like a ceramic article) then the ballast lead is poured into until the proper weight reached and capped off. If a keel bolt is dislodged (by a grounding), bilge water can seep into the cavity and then freezing water can do its thing. My dealer has suggested a sensible repair procedure, however, the cost is going to be substantial. I don’t see anyway of avoiding this situation, but thought you might like to know what can happen.

 

[Paul Akers]

Similar

First, I assume that you mean protruding 2" and not 2'. I have an '88 L37 and my keel has a very slight bulge (maybe 8" round by 1/16") on the starboard side, about 1/3 way back, just above the bulb. The gel coat cracked and I repaired it. This was 4 years ago and I haven't had any more problems. I usually make it a point to check it every time I check my boat in the winter, just to be sure.Good luck with the repair.

 

[Thorp Thomas]

Inches not feet

Your right Paul, I did mean inches not feet. Funny how that little mark can change the creditability the story. I also was referring to the outer cast of the keel is made from lead. Leading one to believe it's a solid peace of lead.

 

[Jim Russell]

More to the Story

I assume the bulge is on the top of the bulb on the keel. This is because as the ballast lead is poured, any impurities tend to rise to the top, hence the top of the bulb. These impurities are more aborbent of water, freezing, etc., than the lead ballast.The repair costs are not necessarily great depending who does them and what region of the country you are in.I repaired mine last year using West Products. Took relatively little time and is lasting. I have a smaller problem this year but the repair from last year is holding. Hence a good repair should last.Jim