[C320-list] Changing a Keel

[Andrew Santangelo]

Dennis,

It was loooong ago when I did the change over (I think in 2000).  I think it was $7k, but it is just a guess.  Here is how it worked out:

* Catalina shipped up the new keel during the delivery of a boat to the local dealer.  i.e. the new keel was along for the ride.
* The old keel was removed and shipped back to Catalina on the semi-truck that delivered the boat, or a future truck going back.  I believe I got a credit for the lead in the old keel.
* The new keel was then attached.

We did the work during the winter layup, but I think it can be done fairly quickly.

The results were profound.  I immediately noticed once the boat was launched she sat higher in the water.  Under sail she clearly pointed much better.

Of course the question is Catalina does not make the C320 anymore.  BUT they should still have the keel molds.  I would inquire ASAP.

Andrew

C320 "Dawn Treader"
#333
Holland, MI

J22 "Blitzkrieg"
Elephant Butte, New Mexico



On Aug 25, 2013, at 10:40 AM, Cary Dennis Lowe wrote:

> Thanks Andrew
> 
> Do you know approximate cost for the conversion?
> 
> Dennis
> 
> Sent from my iPad
> 
> On Aug 24, 2013, at 11:27 PM, Andrew Santangelo <andrew_santangelo at mac.com> wrote:
> 
>> Hello Dennis,
>> 
>> Yes, I have experienced the fun of changing from a wing to a fin keel - the advantage is profound when racing.  It is not just pointing, which is important, but also you sit a little higher and you are carrying less mass.  The improvement will beat any PHRF handicap rating you will get.  When I was last on Lake Michigan wing keels were given no advantage over fins (I will learn more in the next week or so if this has changed).  And I do like the fin keel for cruising too due to the improved ability to point and easier to moved off when you run aground (in theory for me).
>> 
>> The answer to your question is no you do not change the rudder. The only thing you change is the keel.
>> 
>> And I hear you about the strong winds in San Francisco.  I sailed there for the last 4 years.  My advanced crews loved it;  guests and beginner crews - they toured the city or sat on the boat in the slip at Pier 39 (our last home port).
>> 
>> Andrew
>> 
>> C320 "Dawn Treader"
>> #333
>> Holland, Michigan
>> 
>> J22 "Blitzkrieg"
>> Elephant Butte, New Mexico
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> On Aug 24, 2013, at 10:13 PM, Cary Dennis Lowe wrote:
>> 
>>> I have a wing keel on Grace Kellie.  In the strong winds of the San Francisco Bay I can't point as high as the other 320's in the club.  I have a little better PHRF rating, but it really doesn't account the the variance.  Has anybody ever changed out a wing keel for a fin keel?  And do you also have to change the rudder?
>>> 
>>> Any help or advice is appreciated.
>>> 
>>> Thanks
>>> Dennis 
>>> Grace Kellie #917
>>> Sent from my iPad
>>