Keel up or Down

[shaqra]

Hi
Which is the best option ( if any) for a lifting keel on a swinging mooring,
keel up or down?. There is plenty of depth for fully down. Are there pros and cons??.
Thanks for any info.
Shaqra

 

[davidwf]

I would use keel down, two factors, less strain on lfting mechanisim and also will provide grip in water to stop boat ranging about on the mooring so much.

 

[Inselaffe]

I leave mine up so as to avoid fouling which I cant get to when its on the trailer, but then again this year so far no fouling.

I am on a drying mud mooring, but would sink into mud no worries with keel down.

when I am on boat at anchor I leave keel down as then boat is more stable.

I dont know if environment in keel case is more corrosive than in water though.

 

[graham]

I allways raise mine on the mooring mainly to keep the winch in use.If it was left down all year the winch could be seized up and I wouldnt know.

Also it prevents fouling which could cause the keel to jam.

 

[fireball]

It also depends on the boats around you.
If they are Current ridden then leave the keel down - otherwise you could find you're rafting up with your neighbours too often! /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif

 

[shaqra]

Thanks for the info.
Will leave it up.