Based on the math stated, that would mean the speed would have to drop by 10 knots, and clearly this is not the case. The location of the weight probably plays a role. I lost virtually no speed under power afer adding the weighted keel. Sailing speed increased due to reduction in heel which more than overcomes the extra weight. Crew weight positioned on the windward side can also speed up the boat unless winds are very light. Bottom line is, it's not just about weight but how the weight is used.Weighted Keel
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delevi
- Admiral
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- Location: San Francisco Catalina 380, former 26M owner
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Re: Weighted Keel
Personally, I don't sail without water ballast, even with my 180 lb daggerboard. It's just not worth the risk and added stress. As for weight, I don't think it's linear math. Consider that the motoring speed between a ballasted boat vs. non-ballasted with a 50 hp engine is 3 knots (difference) at WOT. We're talking 1150 lbs on an Based on the math stated, that would mean the speed would have to drop by 10 knots, and clearly this is not the case. The location of the weight probably plays a role. I lost virtually no speed under power afer adding the weighted keel. Sailing speed increased due to reduction in heel which more than overcomes the extra weight. Crew weight positioned on the windward side can also speed up the boat unless winds are very light. Bottom line is, it's not just about weight but how the weight is used.
Based on the math stated, that would mean the speed would have to drop by 10 knots, and clearly this is not the case. The location of the weight probably plays a role. I lost virtually no speed under power afer adding the weighted keel. Sailing speed increased due to reduction in heel which more than overcomes the extra weight. Crew weight positioned on the windward side can also speed up the boat unless winds are very light. Bottom line is, it's not just about weight but how the weight is used.-
Kelly Hanson East
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- Location: Kelly Hanson Marine........Mac 26M Dealer......Freedom Boat Works
Re: Weighted Keel
Im glad this thread finally got answered after 4 years, the suspense was killing me... 
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bubba
- Captain
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Re: Weighted Keel
delevi did you use epoxy with lead shot to fill your dagger board ? What size shot ?
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delevi
- Admiral
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Re: Weighted Keel
Bubba,
I had mine made by Joel at IDA. Had it about 3 years now. No shot. Solid lead at the bottom. I have written extensively on this so, do a search and you'll get plenty of info.
Leon
I had mine made by Joel at IDA. Had it about 3 years now. No shot. Solid lead at the bottom. I have written extensively on this so, do a search and you'll get plenty of info.
Leon