Hull Keel Crack

I

ign

Active Member
Joined
16 Nov 2008
Messages
62
Visit site
A thin hairline crack appearing at the hull keel joint is not uncommon as I understand. However, is this something that is more often than not caused by a hard grounding? Should it be found in yachts which are only 5 years old and would it normally be the responsibility of the seller to repair these cracks in case of a sale or are they not considered material? thanks for any thoughtful comments or insights.
 
You need to describe these hairline cracks in more detail. How long?

Assume you do not mean a crack where the metal keel meets the GRP? A line here is normal because of the various fillers and sealants used.

The cracks of more concern are:

1: Cracks radiating out beyond the forward (leading) edge of the keel like the hands of a clock. These indicate a downwards tug on the hull as the bottom of the keel hit something.

2: Cracks running across the hull at the real end of keel indicating the rear of the keel tried to push upwards into the hull.

I reckon 20% of fin keel yachts older than 15 years will have some minor examples of the type 1 cracks.
 
I have a hairline crack round the joint between keel and hull on a boat only 18 months old which appeared when the antfoul was getting thin, but it's not a problem, just a crack in the sealant.
 
Thanks for the responses.

It seems to be a crack where the metal meets GRP, and probably as you have indicated is only a matter of sealant or anitfoul getting thin. The boat is otherwise in good condition, only 5 years old, and the (fin)keel does not show any signs of having hit anything. I will have the boat surveyed in any case, but is this something which the seller should be obliged to repair with the boat already out of the water? How much do such repairs run?
 
Thank you. I think that is what I wanted to hear. In essence I should proceed with a survey and it should only be cosmetics.
 
"Any good survey will have a keel-bolt drawn and checked,"

But most survey reports will simply state that this should be done. In my experience most surveyors will not undertake any work of this type as they expect a shipwright to be on hand if you want it done.

A crack of this type MAY be cosmetic, or it may indicate the need to tighten the keel bolts. In an older boat, it may be a sign of potential keel bolt problems.
 
[ QUOTE ]
Any good survey will have a keel-bolt drawn and checked, so I wouldn't worry unduly.

[/ QUOTE ]
Hang on a mo. Most people here know enough to quietly chuckle at your statement but try to remember the OP seems like a new entrant to sailing. Let's not confuse him with false expectations.
 
Following my experiences when I bought my current boat nearly six years ago I would firstly make sure your surveyor is a member of a recognised organisation and has inedmnity insurance. Also do not use a surveyor suggested by the seller - talk to other local sailors and get one others respect. Then tell him of your specific concern and if he does not give you a black and white answer walk away from the boat.

Reasons? My survey told me the boat was seaworthy despite the internal layout being a variant from the norm and did not pick up at all on the fact that the deck stepped mast support is actually off centre. I have now found out that the variations have resulted in severe weekening of the GRP and the boat requires rather drastic repairs (probably approaching her value) to put right. And yes I was naive and the surveyor does not have indemnity cover.

Buyer beware! Using a surveyor doesn't always help.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Share this page

Top