If your keel bolts have deteriorated to the point where they are unsafe, or have failed entirely, we can replace them.  MarsKeel™ can offer you replacement technology and techniques that return your keel to new condition.

MarsKeel™ has the ability to replace damaged keel bolts in the original keel. Our technology allows us to remove damaged keel bolts from keels and install new bolts with no loss in the surface shape, strength or position relative to any untouched bolt.

The benefits of this process over other methods are is it stronger then simply threading in lag screws through the sump into the lead. With our system you do not run the risk of hitting the old bolt with the new fastener. Our method does, however require that the boat is hauled the keel be removed.

We can offer you any bolt material. Generally speaking in most production boats that would be 304 or 316L grade Stainless Steel.



The bolt replacement process goes through these general steps:

•    The damaged bolts are identified when the keel arrives.
•    The bolts are removed through one side of the keel. This is done with a great deal of skill with a torch taking 
      the upper surface of the lead away.
•    The old bolt is used as a pattern for the production of the new bolt. Most keel bolts are J hooked or bent in 
      some manner.
•    Once the old bolt is removed there is a “saddle” of lead remaining, creating the position for the new bolt to 
      be held.
•    The new bolt is fabricated from new matching material.
•    The new bolt can even be welded back into the bolt cage right in the keel.
•    The new bolt is fused into place. Lead is melted back on top of the new bolt, fusing the original lead and 
      the new lead, making the repair as strong as the original keel.
•    The entire surface of the keel is faired, both sides.
•    The root cord is cleaned.
•    The remaining original keel bolts are cleaned and readied for installation on the boat.

You can see the detailed outline of the procedure attached below.

The entire keel is coated with the required number of coats of Interprotect 2000E.

Once the keel has had all the necessary bolts replaced it is brought to the packaging department where it is skidded for shipping. If it is possible we will skid the keel up-right, to make installing it easier for the customer.