Advice on repairing a 322 Oday

sbleier · #1 (**permalink**) 09-03-2008

Need some advice on repairing a sailboat that needs lots of work:
It's a 32 ft Oday 322 without the keel. Not sure where I could find a replacement keel, or someone to help with the work. I'm in upstate New York.

After looking at where the keel was previously located, it's not clear what the bolts were connected to in order to hold it in. Does anyone have any more detailed pictures of this?

josrulz · #2 (**permalink**) 09-03-2008

Well, without getting into whether the project is worth it, or if it's a good idea, I do know this: The molds for the O'Day 322 were purchased by a company in Japan, and I believe they are currently building the 322 over there (not certain). They might have the original molds for the keel. I did a search on Google for O'Day Japan and the first listing has some information with contact info.

I don't know if this is a realistic option--you might be able to get a keel made in the U.S., or find one from a 322 that's been totalled. Probably would be cheaper if you can find one.

That doesn't address whether any of this is a good idea, or help with pics, but good luck regardless...

camaraderie · #3 (**permalink**) 09-03-2008

The 322 came with a lead wing keel. It was bolted to the keel stub. There's a good chance the keel was made for them by Mars metals and they might be a good source to check. My guess is that you will find it uneconomical to proceed.
Here's a review:
http://www.iheartodays.com/files/mod..._511w_674h.jpg

PalmettoSailor · #4 (**permalink**) 09-03-2008

There was a manufacturers label in the nav station of our Oday 322 that refered to the "Patented Hydrokeel", but unfortunately that is all I remember about it. I've found one reference on the web indicating that Cam's hunch re: Mars Metals may be correct but I couldn't say for sure. I didn't see a reference to the Hydrokeel on their website.

The 322 is a neat boat and could be a fun boat for a small family on an inland lake or somewhat protected waters. That said, I have to agree with Cam that if you want a 322 you'd be far better off finding the best example on the market to buy vs. trying to restore one that's currently sans keel.

denby · #5 (**permalink**) 09-03-2008

A O'day 322 is probably worth in sailing condition about $30,000. So other than the keel what are the other problems. What year is it and what is the asking price? The 322 is a nice boat and is good for coastal sailing.

sbleier · #6 (**permalink**) 09-04-2008

The boat is a 1988. I did check out Mars Metals and see they make keels. waiting for a callback to see how close they can match the original one. Other than keel, the boat needs a bunch of other stuff, like Sail, Masts, rudder. Motor runs great. They are asking under $4K, so it's obvious it needs a bit of work. Interior isn't too bad - needs the usual wood/trim restoration.

sbleier · #7 (**permalink**) 09-04-2008

I was looking through old posts and came across one that references someone that had lost their keel in Lake Ontario in 60 feet of water 3 miles from shore. Must be the same boat.

denby · #8 (**permalink**) 09-04-2008

I would look for another boat. Time and money into that one does not seam worth it. If you do want a project boat then this one looks to be it.

sbleier · #9 (**permalink**) 09-13-2008

you may be right. I got a price for a replacement keel and by the time it gets installed, your looking at $10K. Adding all the other missing parts and you are up to $25K total assuming you do it yourself.

Faster · #10 (**permalink**) 09-13-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by sbleier

you may be right. I got a price for a replacement keel and by the time it gets installed, your looking at $10K. Adding all the other missing parts and you are up to $25K total assuming you do it yourself.

yeah.. for similar money and a WHOLE LOT LESS grief you can get another example of the same boat, I'm sure.