Moisture in the Keel of Albin Vega Mark 1

[Gene Neill]

Folks I understand that there's a cavity in the keel under the bilge of Mark 1 Vegas (mines a 1969). Does anyone know if this cavity is balsa cored or of other composition? The moisture reading is high over this area and I was hoping someone could suggest a way to reduce the moisture inside. I was thinking of drilling a hole near the bottom of the keel to drain any moisture but wasn't sure of the best place to do this. Has anyone else done this? I wanted to seal up this hole so that I could open it again when drying out over winter but worry that any drain plug fitted might let more moisture in. Any ideas much appreciated, Jeff

 

[btfag0s]

My Vega is roughly the same vintage (V752). I drilled and drained that lower section and glassed it over about twenty years ago. As far as I remember It was a void rather than filled with anything.The damp area is very clear after a few days ashore, so I'd just drill a hole at the lowest point.

 

[rchrdcoe]

My 1st Vega was a series 1. As I remember, that keel plug recently discussed drained that cavity. Whenever I hauled, I opened it up to drain and dry out.