Lost swing keel on a 22'

[Big Windy]

I lost my swing keel on a '79 - I believe I got snarled on an unmarked crab pot or a clam line and combined with a weak keel pin and relentless waves it broke away. Any opinions on wether I should fix or forget about it? I spent $2.5K this year on the boat (been on her less than 10 times!) so I'd like to repair if possible. Can I even buy a replacement swing keel? samattson@hotmail.com Shady Side, MD

 

[22Nauti]

Have you tried Catalina Direct yet?

How deep was the water...and where were you. "Up The Creek Salvage" in West River Yacht Harbour may help you find it. Charlie, the owner, is a great guy and may be able to help you. Good luck

 

[Big Windy]

Unknown location so salvage isn't possible

Unfortunately between waves, darkness, and seasickness I couldn't come within 200 yds of the area to even attempt salvage - thanks for the advice though. I was able to do a better underwater inspection this AM and I believe after getting snagged the pin snapped and then my keel dangled from the cable for a while (the cable was frayed and short)I lost all ability to manuver but still drifted quite a distance. Not until someone started to tow me and I heard a horrible 'pop' did the tension / drag release.

 

[greg17847]

some thoughts

I have wondered myself what I would do to replace the keel on my Catalina 22 if it were lost or rusted away. A replacement keel at Catalina Direct will run >$800. An alternative is to purchase an old Cat 22 and salvage the keel. OR....how about a big hunk of scap steel or several pieces of scap steel welded together to form the shape of the standared keel? I mean we are only talking a hunk of mild steel which is readily available everywhere. The exact dimensions of the keel and the location of the pivot hole are available on the internet. Unless you are racing, just about any old piece of steel (welded togeter and of the correct shape) suspended under your Catalina should do.

 

[George]

Take Heart

Take heart. These things happen to everyone. $2.5K is still cheap to get on the water. Look around you should be able to find a replacement. Fabricating one is an interesting concept as was mentioned above. If you can get measurements from someone and visit a metal supplier, I bet they can get you real close to where you need to be. A good machine shop could break the edges off for you and drill the hole. I like it. If not, worse comes to worse, you can part the boat out. Trailer, mast, sails, winches, cushions, motor,anchor,... you probably can get if not all, surely most of your money back. The important part is that you get yourself back on the water. George