Swing keel up or down
A lowered keel will diminish the amount the boat slips sideways from the effect of the wind. So, in light winds you may feel you don't need this advantage. Additionally, however, you will notice more effective sailing close hauled with the keel down. So in light winds and sailing off the wind, you probably don't need the keel. I just lower mine when I get the water depth necessary and leave it down. Oh, I will raise it if just motoring, else it creates quite a drag. As far as at the mooring, this seems to be a matter of preference. Some will tell you that you should have it down as it puts less strain on the cable and winch, others will say to keep it raised. I have to keep mine up because of the depth of water at the dock. One consideration is whether you have "keel klunk" or not. If your keel is sliding back and forth on the pin I would keep it in the position that limits this movement the most. I took care of this problem on my boat by installing the retrofit bronze spacers. Regards, Kenn
