
removed at any time, this casting may be unbolted by removing the stainless steel cable and the four
mounting bolts from the underside. Make sure that the keel is well supported before removing these
fastenings.
You'll face special problems if you decide to keep your retractable keel model in the water, especially
salt water. Bottom paint is a must, plus periodic cleaning and removal of marine growth from the keel
trunk slot. The possibility of corrosion to the keel and keel fittings is greatly increased. Keeping a
retractable-keel model in salt water for lengthy periods is not recommended.
Should you decide to keep a retractable-keel model in the water at a slip or mooring, the following
suggestions may help to extend the life of the keel assembly. First of all, the keel pivot pin is made of
silicon bronze, the hinge castings are of brass, and the keel itself is made of steel. To retard electrolytic
action which will "eat" away the metals, drill and tap the side of the keel (near the forward edge) as
close to the keel pivot assembly as possible. Then attach a teardrop shaped "zinc." Keeping the keel in
the raised position will help prolong the life of the flexible stainless steel cable by keeping as much of it
out of the water as possible. Check the keel cable monthly, during the sailing season. Replacement
cables are available through the local dealer.
Paint the keel itself with rust retardant paint like the commercially available "Rust-o-leum" or zinc
chromate paints. If you use a zinc chromate paint, you must strip the keel down to bare metal before
painting.
Paint the keep and fiberglass bottom (including portion of rudder that is underwater) with a good quality
"hard finish vinyl-based" bottom paint to protect the fiberglass gel coat and reduce fouling growth. The
through-hull fittings are installed so that there is very little, if any, metal exposed to water to be acted
upon.
Your local dealer may have additional suggestions relative to the particular area where you plan to keep
the boat.
4.7.2 Retractable-Keel Illustration
Page 28 of 35
Catalina 22 Owner's Manual for 1987
7/21/2010
http://www.catalina22.org/manuals/mnl87/handbook.htm