Fix hole in keel?

[Captain Caveman]

I just got a sweet deal on an older aluminum 12ft Starcraft. I've got a money-back guarantee on the boat if it leaks. However, when I unloaded this gem in my yard, I noticed that there are dime-sized holes in both the front and back of the aluminum keel. It doesn't look like there is a hole in the hull.

This boat will be my cabin boat; a spare that only goes out into our small bay, is used for rowing (using the oars), and used with my little 5hp motor for booze cruises.

Is there any reason to try fixing these little holes?

 

[CATransplant]

Re: Fix hole in keel?

OK, I just checked my 12' Starcraft (1964). No holes in my keel. However, it may be that they're there to drain water from the keel. I'm not sure. If you can post photos of the holes, someone may be able to tell for sure.

If they look intentional, meaning nice and smooth, I'll be they're there for a reason and that reason would be to drain any water that got under the separate keel. But I'm just not certain.

 

[Captain Caveman]

Re: Fix hole in keel?

I don't have pictures, but I did look this morning. They are certainly not intentional holes. Upon further review, they are both about the size that a pen or pencil would make if it poked through the keel. The front of the keel around the hole has lots of rock scrapes.

It is a separate keel so I don't this thing will sink.

So the question still remains....any reason to patch these things?

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Fix hole in keel?

Well considering your area.... MN ....... if they collect water and do not drain they will freeze and split in the winter. Your choice.