Trapper 500/501 Fin vs. bilge keel

[philipmason]

Tom - there is a big difference in the bilge keel versions of the 500 vs the 501. The 500 bilge keels had a curved forward edge and when taking the ground would tip onto their nose if too much weight (like a person going onto the foredeck!) was forward. The 501 keels had a straight angled forward edge and were stable when dried out. There may have been a few boats that have the 'wrong' keels that were built around the time of the change. Also be aware that the 501 bilge keel version was originally built with the fin keel rudder which hung below the depth of the keels (not helpful) Many owners cut the bottom 125mm of the rudder of and re-glassed (I did the same). In terms of construction - we had issues with the stanchion bases which were screwed into moulded in plates. They were always leaking so we had a wet bilge. I made up backing plates and re-fitted using through bolts which worked well. Be aware that not all boats were built by Trapper - both the 500 and the 501 were available as 'kits'. We had no problems with the performance (though we didn't race ours) and sailed many miles crossing the Channel each year for a family cruise. Still look back with fond memories of the boat.

 

[philipmason]

Hello
Is the picture a 500 keel or the 501 keel please.
Thanks
Philip

 

[RJD393]

Hello
Is the picture a 500 keel or the 501 keel please.
Thanks
Philip

Philip the photo is of a 500. The rudder is a give away as are the handrails on the coachroof.

 

[philipmason]

Thank you.
I have now bought it subject to survey and am happy !