I did a search on this forum for
keel bolts and read what I found. What I read so far has still left me with questions. I purchased a fairly solid, older
boat -- a 1977
Willard 8 Ton World Cruiser. This
boat has a bolt on iron
keel. But I found that information in only one post in another forum. It may or may not be true. During an out of the
water survey, the
surveyor questioned the condition of some of the
keel bolts. Most bolts are thick (but rusted), and one bolt in particular is very thin. All 6 bolts are heavily rusted as are the two
backing plates per
keel bolt. One backing plate on one bolt is about 40% disintegrated -- meaning I was able to remove with a little effort and just a screwdriver, a good portion of the backing plate. However, the second plate is as solid as a rock -- which makes no sense to me since the one on top disintegrated fairly easily. I have yet to check the rest of the bolts.
Here are my questions. I am assuming I ought to simply replace all the bolts -- and I am not sure that is really necessary. So..... How does one make a determination on whether or not to replace (or simply add) new keel bolts? Should I simply vigorously attack the plates with a screwdriver and sees what sloughs off? If I do that, does the keel stand of chance of simply falling off? Would any ship yard be competent to handle keel bolts? Is this a
DIY project?
I am new to sailing and I have been in the thick of
repair and
restoration for only 3 months now -- I am new to that process as well. I am still
learning about materials that are used on boats. I do not have a sense of what yards can do or what a person can do on their own AND have the job be done correctly. In other words, unlike houses or cars, I do not have a good sense yet of what works and does not
work with boats. I am just beginning to learn what to worry about and what to let be as is. (I hope that last statement makes sense).
Thanks
Michael