Removing keel from an ETAP 23 lift keeler

[Braveheart]

Hi All, we need to repair the keel lifting mechanism and had the boat lifted to remove the keel yesterday. We followed the manufacturers instructions and unscrewed the long bolt that holds the keel in, but it’s still held fast in the hull. We can’t see anything as to what could be causing the problem. Any ideas? We’re going to use an endoscope today to try to get a better look.

 

[neilf39]

Not an etap but on my trailer sailer the keel would stay in place unless the keel was in the down position as the lifting tackle held it in even with the main bolt out.

 

[coveman]

Have a look on Facebook "Etap Yacht Owners" Group - there is a thread here describing what you want to do.
The post was by Richard Jeffery dated 15th Sept 2020

 

[Braveheart]

Not an etap but on my trailer sailer the keel would stay in place unless the keel was in the down position as the lifting tackle held it in even with the main bolt out.

Thanks for replying - using an endoscope we identified a plastic sleeve that must have been housing the bolt - it’s not mentioned in the ETAP instructions for the keel and we suspected it might be enough to stop the keel dropping out. However, we removed it and the keel still wouldn’t drop out. We’re now thinking that the grooves/tracks that the keel runs up/down in may be fouled in some way. We are going to try again tomorrow. We may have to call in a specialist.

 

[Braveheart]

Have a look on Facebook "Etap Yacht Owners" Group - there is a thread here describing what you want to do.
The post was by Richard Jeffery dated 15th Sept 2020

Thank you, we’ve contacted Richard and awaiting a reply.

 

[Braveheart]

After a thorough check to ensure it was not physically joined to the infrastructure of the yacht, we managed to remove the keel with a bit of brute force. The keel was attached to a chain by a strop with the chain held down by the crane wheels. We took her up to the point where the first guide appeared, as far as we had managed this far, and then gave a small lift. Out she came! We now need to refurbish the keel and likely replace the stainless runners inside the keel box. Once done we’ll lift the yacht back onto the keel ready to start the rest of the renovation work. Thanks all for your help. Images to follow.