Keel Bolt Access Crack

[SailChick20]

When my boat was pulled out, I noticed this U-shaped crack...about 6 inches across and on both sides of the keel. My first reaction was to flip out...assuming a keel removal/inspection and possible $Thousands were in my future.







I was out at the yard today, working on some winterizing, etc...and one of the riggers stopped by. He informed me that this was the keelbolt access, not to worry...that it just needs to be sealed.

Has anyone done that before?
How do I go about it?
Can it wait until Spring?

BTW Tim...your pal Mitch also dropped by with his bag of tricks, acting like he was there to prepare my mast to be removed (which I'm not doing)...funny guy.

[Maine Sail]

Looks more like a cut out for a keel sump. Keel bolt access... hmmmm...??

[zz4gta]

Doesn't look like damage, but I've never seen it before. Then again, there's a lot I haven't seen.

[sailingdog]

Why would you need keel bolt access from the keel?? Most keel bolts I've seen dead-end in the keel—there is nothing to maintain or adjust on the keel side—as it is all done from inside the boat. I think it is far more likely keel sump access.

[SailChick20]

What is a reason I would ever need a keel sump access?
If this keel were yours, would you be concerned?

Any ideas on how to re-seal?
I don't like how it looks like water has entered.

[AllThumbs]

The boat is toast. I will take it off your hands and save you the disposal fee.

Actually, I have no idea what that might be....It looks to symetrical and perfect to be a structural crack.

[AllThumbs]

Call the manufacturer?

[sailingdog]

Sailchick-

What kind of boat is it... knowing that would probably help answer the question.

[AllThumbs]

Beneteau First 305, 1986 according to her profile.

[sailingdog]

I guess a phone call to Bendytoy would be in order then...