Keel Humming

A forum for discussing topics relating to older MacGregor/Venture sailboats.
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MacStonge
Just Enlisted
Posts: 24
Joined: Tue Sep 22, 2009 3:35 pm
Sailboat: MacGregor 25

Keel Humming

Post by MacStonge »

Hello Folks,
I have a quick question. We had our 1984 Mac 25 out yesterday for our first real sail in strong winds (15 to 20 knots) here on Lake Ontario off Kingston. It was a blast but we noticed that there was a very audible humming emanating from the keel area. Kind of spooky. We hadn't noticed this before, but then we've never had her up to this kind of speed either. I assume it has to do with the keel cable becoming harmonic. We just want to be sure that nothing is out of order. Is this normal?

Thanks
chefmike
Deckhand
Posts: 42
Joined: Wed Jan 06, 2010 7:39 am
Sailboat: Venture 2-24
Location: Lindale TX

Re: Keel Humming

Post by chefmike »

Very normal. You can let out a little more cable so the tautness is gone and the hum will disipate, but I keep mine a little tight. I use the change in audible pitch to gauge my speed.
MacStonge
Just Enlisted
Posts: 24
Joined: Tue Sep 22, 2009 3:35 pm
Sailboat: MacGregor 25

Re: Keel Humming

Post by MacStonge »

Perfect. That's comforting. Thanks for the fast reply.
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Catigale
Site Admin
Posts: 10421
Joined: Fri Jun 11, 2004 5:59 pm
Sailboat: MacGregor 26X
Location: Admiral .............Catigale 2002X.......Lots of Harpoon Hobie 16 Skiffs....Island 17
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Re: Keel Humming

Post by Catigale »

Most every boat Ive ever sailed lets off a song once you get her moving....
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beene
Site Admin
Posts: 2546
Joined: Tue Sep 19, 2006 5:31 pm
Sailboat: MacGregor 26M
Location: Ontario Canada, '07 26M, Merc 75 4s PEGASUS

Re: Keel Humming

Post by beene »

Catigale wrote:Most every boat Ive ever sailed lets off a song once you get her moving....
Hmmm

Why do I feel as though I have said that before, except not about boats......

:wink:

G
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baldbaby2000
Admiral
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Joined: Sun Mar 28, 2004 8:41 am
Location: Rapid City, SD, 2005 26M, 40hp Tohatsu
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Re: Keel Humming

Post by baldbaby2000 »

Both our Mac 25s did that. You can loosen or tighten the keel winch to stop it but I don't mind getting a nice butt-buzz when we're going fast.
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