Keel Roller

[twink90]

Just joined today and am trying to absorb all the boating information we can. We just got our first boat a couple weeks ago, and have so much to learn. We started it for the first time Sunday after repacing Distributor cap, new plugs and wires, tune-up kit (rotors, condensor, points)
It was so AWSOME! Can't wait to get on the water!

So for my question, we noticed the front of the hull where it rolls onto trailer is scratched from top to bottom. Some are deep gouges to the metal. We can see the rubber keel is worn all the way through so its been cutting into the boat. How do we know what to buy & how do you change it? We just don't want to screw up, or break something. We need a boating for idiots book. ha ha There were just so many differant sizes, shapes that I figured it wouldn't hurt to ask.

Trailer info: 2" SHE Glass II 3500lb & 300lb tongue
Dutton-Lainson Model 960-2

Any general trailer maintanance or suggestions would be great! Lights do not work on this trailer either.

 

[HyperFox]

Re: Keel Roller

Welcome to the forum!

As Ive just done this myself, you can pick up keel rollers up at marinas, boat stores, wal marts, Canadian tire, etc. Mine cost $5.00 for a new rubber one.

To change the roller, all I did was gave the winch some slack and slid the boat back until its weight was off the roller.

Then I undid the two bolts holding the roller on. Pulling the bolt all the way out allows the roller to to fall out.

Then simply put the new roller in place and slide the shaft through.

Retorque the bolts and ensure it does roll. Then winch your boat back into place.

If you can launch your boat, its even easier. Just dont change them on the ramp. People will get upset.

Now as for lighting, you will have to guess yourself as to weather or not its worth repairing or replacing. In my case the wiring's insulation was cracked and so was a taillight so it was cheaper to replace all the wiring. There are wiring diagrams here, but if your a first timer, Id reccomend getting a do it yourself kit.

Just remember if you do buy a kit, and your trailer is over 80" (?) you may need marker lights for the front. Just to save you the trip back.

Good luck and were all pullin for ya.

 

[rndn]

Re: Keel Roller

Welcome to the forum!!
As you are new to boating I wanted to make sure you realize that you can never run a boat engine without a steady supply of water, not even for a few minutes. In the outdrive there is a water pump that provides fresh water to the engine circulating pump. This pump in the outdrive is called an impeller. The impeller is rubber and will melt without a steady supply of water. They sell a set of water muffs that attach to a garden hose and clamp around your outdrive at the water intake screens. If your boat is closed cooling then never mind. If you did run it you need to replace the impeller before you take it out onto the water.