Keel Replacement in a 1968 Chris Craft Cavalier

by Brian
(St. Thomas.ON Canada)

I have recently come into possession of a 26 foot 1968 Chris Craft Cavalier powered by a single 283 c.i.d. engine with "Chris Craft Pompano Beach" on the valve covers.

My question is how do I repair/replace the keel which has "hogged" 41 inches aft of the forward end of the skeg?

I currently have the boat supported on jackstands with plenty of room to work under it.

I have a substantial inventory of woodworking equipment and above average skill in woodworking.

I have built 3 small plywood boats, 8',11'6", and 12', but have no experience with a boat the size of the Chris Craft.

I have counted 5 round-head bolts that appear to fasten the skeg to the keel, the bolt heads being along the bottom of the skeg.

Any advice or information on how to approach the problem will be greatly appreciated.

I suppose my main concern is keeping the hull from spreading when the keel is removed.

Thank you to all in advance.
Brian






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Aug 05, 2013
 Keel Repair
by: Larry

I have a 57' CC Constelation that had worm damage to the keel and had no problem removing the bad section.

The frames didn't spread since they also bolted together from (stbd to port).

Can you post a picture of the keel so I know what you have encountered?

Best of luck. You might look at what I did on: https://www.facebook.com/DescanseIIRestorationPageAndBlog

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