lead in H260 keel

[Brad]

I went to Hunter Marine while in florida and took the tour. After it ended I asked some questions about a heavier keel and they(cant remeber who specifically) said I could add lead to the keel and that the pivot point would be stroung enough to hold it. Anyone tried this or know someone who has? How did it work out and stuff like that?Thanks in advanceBrad

 

[alan]

We have all talked about it alot...

...but no one has admitted doing it. IF it could be done, enough weight added to improve tenderness without stressing the keel system then............................I think that deciding would involve a bunch of calculations and knowledge of the materials. alan

 

[Jeff Peltier]

I've had the bracket out

that supports the board. I seriously doubt that the 1/2" bolt that holds it in place or the 1/2" pin that it pivots on would handle the extra load, much less the bracket and trunk. The turning blocks that support the load when pulling the board up have already had some problems over the years and the extra weight would just multiply the stress. Also,some people have bent or broken the pivit pin, although this could be from allowing the board to free fall, with the sudden stop at the end doing the damage.But, I think it would be a great idea, if properly engineered.