Underside of keel

[o2n7dcolin]

What methods have been used to view and work on the underside of the keel in the area of the iron? I have been able to work on the aft end no problem having blocks under the forward end, I want to check for any scrapes or cracks in the fiberglass. Colin, Isis V-703

 

[bobnlesafloat]

I've checked/scraped ours a few times by diving under whilst at anchor; when ashore I just slip a mirror under the chocked-up keel. The only work/repairs I've had to do was an epoxy repair to a scrape at the very bottom of the keels leading edge, so access wasn't a problem; I would expect that this is always going to be the most likely place for any repairs.

 

[SVFlyAway]

I have my boat hauled at a yard with a travel lift. I usually talk with the
folks and schedule my launch as the last one in the morning before lunch.
They lift the boat and then leave it hanging in the slings for at least an
hour on their break. During this time I can check the full keel out, apply
bottom paint to the spots I missed (both on the keel and the hull where the
pads were).

I suppose you could also do the last one in the afternoon and perhaps have
it hanging overnight. Never asked them about that and don't know if they be
keen on having it hanging that long. But you could talk with them.