Keel problem - should I fix it?

[Dmksails]

I though I was careful when setting up the keel. When I epoxied the first side, I had the curve just right with a block at the end keeping everything centered from end to end and confirmed with a laser level. I also checked the centerline when I epoxied the second side, but I sitll ended up with a keel that is flat on one side and curved on the other. Not sure where I went wrong.

Should I attempt to fix this, and if so how?

Thanks!

keel2.jpg (34.71 KiB) Viewed 258 times

keel1.jpg (32.35 KiB) Viewed 257 times

[dbeck]

I believe this should be fixed, but we have built only one Pocketship so far. I'd contact CLC and ask them about their opinion.

[[email protected]]

That much asymmetry looks excessive to me. I worry that when you stitch the bottoms to the keel, the entire boat will get warped.
You may have to cut one side just behind the centerboard trunk so that it can be straightened.
Definitely ask CLC for advice.

[Dmksails]

Update: As suggested I discussed my problem with CLC and was told that leaving it as is would not affect boat handling, but if I really wanted to fix this then doing a relief cut on one side would be a good approach. So I made the cut, put in a small block and screws to hold it in the correct position and finally epoxied it in place. Worked great! Thanks all!

[BillR]

I did the same thing.

I cut down the trailing edge and along the center, pulled it into position and glued it up. Not a big deal.

In reviewing the instructions, I could find no reference to blocking up the trailing edge/heal. I may have missed it but no big deal.

Remember, it is not the mistake you make but how you correct that is important!