Keel locking mechanism

Posted By: dick
Date: 3/24/07 10:46p.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

In Response To: swing keel locking (TiminMinnesota)

Tim et al, thanks for your replies to my query about locking devices to keep the keel down, particularly in the event of a knockdown. My plan is now to get a stout stainless bolt,, perhaps 1/4", have a 'T' handle welded across the bolt head, then drill into the side of the keel truck in the cabin, at a point centered on the upper side of the keel when it would be down, and glass a 1/4" Tee nut into the hole. Thjis I hope will solve several problems: first, it should help keep the keel down if I get knocked down. Secopndly, I expect I may be able to crank it down to keep the keel from rattling both under normal sailing conditions and when at anchor. I find that keel noise as it bangs ffrom side to side to be very annoying. I'll let you know how this project turns out. By the way, I have failed in my ability to post the photo of my mainsheet arrangement on March 11th. It seemed to upload to the Trailer Sailor website, but I can't figure out how to get it attached to the message. Any ideas?