Why buildup the aft keel?

[PiratePast40]

While riping up the transom, noticed that there is what looks like a 1 x 6 board glassed into the bottom of the bilge in the engine compartment. The picture below shows what it looks like after it was ripped out. The board provides a platform for the bilge pump but not much else as far as I can tell. I've noticed the same thing on other projects and was wondering what purpose it serves. Since it was up off the keel, it also means that the drain from the forward compartment must also be a little higher and that means that it forms a dam and water collects in that area.

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This picture shows the water in the bilge just forward of the engine compartment bulkhead that is trapped there because of the board.

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Since I've seen the same thing on pictures of other peoples projects, am wondering if anyone can shed light on why it's that way.

Thanks

 

[Mark42]

Re: Why buildup the aft keel?

Its not uncommon to have a board installed there by the manufacturer so that there is some thickness to the hull for screwing bilge pumps to. The board is usually encased in fiberglass to prevent rot.

You could just build up a few layers of glass so that short screws won't go through the hull. Make a narrow channel down the center to let water drain, and lower the plug hole. That should keep the water from backing up.

 

[PiratePast40]

Re: Why buildup the aft keel?

What you mean it's something simple and makes sense???? I thought they weren't supposed to do that.

Thanks - now it's something my barnacle brain doesn't need to worry about.

 

[redfury]

Re: Why buildup the aft keel?

It's also floor support so it doesn't flex when you are standing by the engine. It might also serve the purpose of a fire wall to keep anything from migrating up to the front of the boat easily such as a fuel leak.

Mine had that also, but it was used as floor support, plus my bilge floor is lower than the deck by 3 inches. Nice and roomy for a couple of batteries ( built in fuel tank up front ).