Cat 22 Swing Keel Question

[Liquidglowfish]

I'm in the process of buying a 1977 Catalina 22, and I have a general question about swing keels. From what I understand they generally have a tendency to rust a bit which shouldn't pose too much a problem; but I am curious about upkeep and refinishing the keel should it be needed. Maybe sand blasting? or just some sanding and repainting? A point of note: I am a college student with limited funds but ample time to try and do the work myself. Any suggestions related or unrelated would be more than welcome, thanks!

[DirtManly]

For just redoing the bottom I usually just sand swing keels, although I alway use a bariier coat on the swing keel. Interlux 2000 barrier coating seems to be the best metal primer on the planet. The only times that I have sand blasted the keel is when I have rebuilt pivot systems. Catalina 22 and 25 seem to have had to much play from side to side from the factory and they only get worse over time. Mind you if your not racing the boat it rarely gets bad enough to become a real problem, more like a real annoyance.
If you are going to do this kind of work your self, PLEASE get a VERY GOOD full mask respirator. Do NOT skimp on this, this stuff is absolutely no good for your lung or eyes.

I am very fond of Catalina's and believe that they are a reasonably good starter boat for just about anyone.
Very Best of Luck
Dirt