Try a 1/2 inch hardwood dowel

Posted By: KRUSE'N, Mac 22
Date: 4/22/09 4:50p.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

In Response To: 1982 Mac 25 (Terry Mondy)

Strong enough to hold the keel down, weak enough to break without damaging the fiberglass. I never use the bolt. My much used 22 had a very ripped slot instead of a round hole from grounding with the bolt in. I did not see any need to use a bolt. Of course, I have never turtled the Mac, so don't know if the dowel would be strong enough for that.... Also, I made several, and have never grounded hard enough to break the first one. Usually I don't even use the dowel, as I have to retract the keel often for shallow water. I only use it sailing in the Chesapeake Bay, in strong wind.