swing keel vibration

[mojobear]

I just purchased my 1976 Catalina Swing Keel, and my first solo with her was in moderate winds 10-15mph. I noticed that when the keel was not locked up or locked down, I could feel vibration through the whole boat. There was no vibration when the keel was locked either up or down. Also, my turnbuckles seem to work themselves loose. How tight does the standing rigging need to stay.

 

[David Williams]

Vibrations

Welcome to Catalina 22 sailing. I love mine. Usually it is the keel cable that makes all of the noise. You do need to check the keel pivot pin for wear and the torque on the four bolts that hold it in place. I am not sure what the answer to the wires getting loose. I have a couple of wires that tend to loosen. I adjust my wires regularly. I did install the below deck supports, which seem to help. They at least keep the deck from flexing. You can get more information from the Association Website: www.catalina22.orgYou are in the midst of "C-22 Country". There are some top sailors at both the Arlington Yacht Club and the Fort Worth Boat Club. David