Swing keel pin bracket

[Gene Sullivan]

One of the brackets that secures the pivot pin for the swing keel is pulling away from the hull. Does this requirea major effort to repair? Is this a repair a novice could perform? The boat was built in 1977, and has been well cared for. Has this ever happened to you? All thoughts greatly appreciated!

 

[Leon Sisson]

Swing Keel Hanger Repair

Gene, The Catalina factory has a one- or two-page drawing with instructions for repairing this problem. I consider the scale of the task it irritating, but not rocket science. You will have to cut up your interior a bit to get at the problem. While you're at it, consider switching to thru-bolts with backing plates for the keel bearing hangers, and putting the interior back together with access panels to get at those thru-bolts. Good luck. -- Leon Sisson