Quote:
Originally Posted by johnshasteen
Swing keels are fine, just know that they do require maintenance from time to time. If you are in Souther waters where your boat only comes out of the water every two or three years, that's something to consider.
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John,
This is my first boat and I am looking for all good advice. Previously, the boat was hauled every winter (in CT) and stored in a shed. This kept her in great shape. But now she is in NC, docked at our house, and I will only haul her as needed. Can you elaborate on the maintenance you refer to? The keel swings about a 'thick' metal pin that is accessible from inside, but I have no idea how to judge wear on it.
I would assume if I start to hear some 'klunking' of the keel as it rattles around in its trunk it is probably time to check it. So far its operation has been very smooth. When the keel is down it sits snuggly in a tappered slot and fills it.
The boat seems sturdy made, but I can imagine there is a lot of stress in the area of the pin.
Ron