1978 San Juan 28 Bolted Keel

[DEC2017]

Does anyone know anything about the SJ28 bolted keels or any length SJ bolted keels?. What are the issues? What maintenance is required? Has anyone ever had to re-bed one?



Thanks.

[Chevy1217]

I have a 76 30ft and I have never had any of the bolts even loosen at all they should be marked with a couple of dots one on the nut and one on the bolt watch for them to move when you clean the under the floor you will get in a habit of looking every time you suck water from the fridge drain that fills up under the floor on anything over one week out with ice in the chest I don't hit the keel on the bottom but usually that is when bolts get loose. mine are just a tight as the day they were put in good luck

[DEC2017]

Chevy1217: Thanks for the response. When you haul out do you get water draining from the keel joint? Part of my concern is the condition of the bedding compound sealing the joint and how water tight it will be after 40+ years. Probably not too big a deal while I have the boat but trying to sell it if it begins to leak my be a problem

DEC 2017

[chris mac]

I have a sj 7.7. Upon purchase, I tested the bolts with a torque wrench. They were at proper torque if not a little high.
Since, I have not had any issues(4 years)
Hauled every winter and no leaks. Unlike Chevy, I have grounded. This year quite hard, enough that my buddy stayed in the cabin watching the bilge as we sailed home. Luckily no issues.
That said, I have helped a friend(c and c 30) grind out his keel connection, ease the bolts, rebed with epoxy, and fair out. Not the funnest job, but not too complicated if you need to do it.

[DEC2017]

Thanks Chris mac. Good to know

DEC2017