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Author: Brendan Subject: Keel bolt removal/ replacement? Info: (10022 views) Posted: Monday 4-4-16 11:18:09 AM |
However, they should be inspected and tightened periodically, and the nuts and washers can be renewed.
Refreshing keel bolts involves removing the nuts (one at a time), cleaning the threads and area around threads as best possible. Inspect as you can, add polysulfide underneath the washer and replace the nuts (without lubricant).
Do not overtighten keel bolts--they do not need a cheater bar to tighten. Standard torque specification for 1/2" stainless bolts is 45 ft/lbs, which is not super tight (car lugnuts are generally specified to around 90 ft/lbs). Overtightening is more likely to lead to bolt failure than undertightening.
In the fleet, only one boat has suffered a keel bolt failure. After researching this issue, it seems best to trust your keel bolts but also: never stand under a hoisted boat.
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