Keel ding repair

[Gini Breidenbach]

After an unfortunate incident with a rock in the marina channel (which has hopefully now been removed), Scissors has a lovely ding in her keel - see attached photo. I am looking for insights and info from anyone who has dealt with this as to how best to repair. Guidance I've received so far indicates removing the filler material far enough to expose the full crack that's going up the keel, slowly filling with epoxy, and then a couple of layers of fiberglass and fairing it out. I'm also wondering where/when will I find lead.

Any help appreciated.

[Robert Homer]

I just sent you a pm Gini, send me your email and I’ll email what prints I have.

[Gini Breidenbach]

Hi, Robert- I don't see your PM for some reason... My email is vstromq@gmail.com.

[Mike Josselyn]

So sorry this happened to you.  Looks like some other damage to hull and possibly the trunk.  I’d suggest a professional repair inspection.  If you are in California checking with the U20 boat whisperer and master repair person, Craig Smith, at Elkhorn Composites, in Watsonville is my recommendation.

[Gini Breidenbach]

Hi, Mike-
I am far, far away from CA in northern MN.  The other damage is from an incident (before I owned her) we had with putting in at a dock a few years ago... The line on the keel winch broke due to sun damage, and the keel slammed down from full up to the bottom of the boat. Not fun. That was professionally repaired.

[Robert Homer]

For others, if you’re in Southern California Vince at Columbia Yachts is a great source for repairs and was a past builder as well. Ive been very happy with their work.