Sailing Umavideo
We're Cutting Off our Keel (Part 1 of 4) | Step 448
July 13, 2025 · 37 min · 142K views
What this video covers
The owners of a Pearson 36 are dropping the vessel's 6,000-pound lead keel to inspect and replace the keel bolts, a project they have deferred for 10 years. The boat previously suffered grounding damage that caused the keel to wobble, leading the crew to reinforce the hull with five additional fiberglass floors. To prepare for the removal, the crew is grinding away layers of paint, fairing compound, and gel coat around the hull-keel joint to expose the connection. Inside the bilge, they are removing old resin and debris to access the keel bolt nuts, which require a deep-reach socket for removal. The plan involves bracing the keel from the outside, lifting the boat to separate the joint, and installing G10 backing plates to distribute the load for the new bolts. The crew is performing this work in a refit environment, using temporary air conditioning and protective suits to manage fiberglass dust during the grinding process.
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