sail w/out swing keel?

[paul]

Is it possible to sail the 22 w/out the swing keel? Mine is gone and it will be several months before I have time and funds to replace. I'm wondering if it out of the question to try and sail in light wind with just the rudder keeping boat under control. I was hoping to use boat for a few more weekends before having to pull her out start repair work.

 

[Herb]

I would not

Paul I would not sail with my keel up let alone without it. You never know when you could get caught in one on of the nice days that turns to the run for the slip days. I would think that it would be a very tender boat and i would be afraid of turning turtle without the keel to bring you backup from a knock down or in your case it would not even take a knock down . SO in short there is no way i would take my boat out without a keel unless i was motoring for the ramp to pull it out.Just one view i am sure you will hear others.HerbDayDreamSitka AK.

 

[Bob Finley]

No swing keel, NO STABILITY!

The weight and drag of the keel is the ONLY thing that will keep you upright. Without it you have the force of the wind trying to tip you over and absolutely nothing working to keep you upright. Also, when (not if) you get knocked down, it is going all the way over and all the way to the bottom. How's your insurance?Bob

 

[Ed P]

You'll Have Leeway

Even if you were lucky enough not to get into any trouble due to heavier winds, you won't be able to maintain any good course or even tack easily, because the boat without a keel will slide slip considerably.If you really can't wait to get back on the water, either rent another boat, or go out with a friend who has one. Don't risk damage to yourself and your boat by being in a hurry.