Void in keel.

[towlerg]

What is the function of the void in the keel?

How big is it?

In the case where the keel is damaged and water enters the void (see
my recent post) is there a path into the boat or is whatever above
the void watertight? ie will damage to keel below the top edge of
the void sink the boat?

George.

 

[colinpspiers]

Hi George,

During a refit of "Naim" 2 winters ago, I removed the fuel tank for cleaning
and discovered the keel void.
Her fuel tank sits on an upsidedown "U" section of GRP. This "U" section is
quite loose and sits right down into the void and the void is drained with a
removable plug really low down on the stb side (I believe Steve Birch has a
stock of these plugs).
The void is handy because all bilge water and anything other fluid drains
into it. "Naim's" bilge suction pipe is led into the bottom of this void to empty
it now and again.
The minus side is that the void should be drained if ashore in the winter to
prevent ice damage and if the void is holed then the boat is at serious risk
of sinking.

So sorry to hear of "Vista's" damage. It would be interesting to know how
thich the GRP is under the void. From memory it seemed quite substantial.

Regards Colin

 

[towlerg]

Thanks for the info. Sadly I can't answer your question re. thickness
of GRP as I've left most of Vista's on some rocks.

Rgds George "Vista" 1043