Keel bolt

Posted By: dick
Date: 3/26/07 11:39a.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

In Response To: keel locking mechanism (TiminMinnesota)

Yes, Tim, that's the idea. I believe the factory provided such a set-up (a T-headed bolt) on many versions of the N/N/G16s. I have a page from a Newport version that shows such a device. I have expanded the notion a bit to have the tee bolt welded to the center of a larger piece of stainless to provide a stronger anchor for the actual bolt. Perhaps a 1/2" or 3/4" bolt would be better. I suppose one could drill into the side of the centerboard trunk with the keel down and go into the keel itself as a way of insuring that there would be a really positive engagement... I suppose that if the boat turns turtle, the whole enterprise would be rather exciting.