Putting A Hollow Keel Boat On Stands: A Step-By-Step Guide

Putting a hollow keel boat on stands is a crucial step in storing your boat and preventing damage. When a boat is out of the water, placing it on stands is essential for maintenance, repairs, and off-season storage. This process involves gathering the necessary materials, such as sturdy jack stands, a hydraulic jack, chocks, and a blocking plan, as well as referring to the boat owner's manual for weight, balance, and placement information. The ground where the boat will be placed should be solid and reasonably flat, and plywood bases are recommended to spread the load and prevent settling. The keel, which bears the weight of the boat, should be supported first, using keel stands or concrete blocks with wood on top. A minimum of two stands are required to level the boat, and additional stands are placed every eight feet for larger boats.

Use keel stands and blocks to support the weight of the boat

To support the weight of a boat, keel stands and blocks are essential. The keel takes on all the weight, so it must be supported first.

You can use concrete blocks with wood on top, but special poppets called keel stands with threaded rods are more convenient. Keel stand pads screw up flat. A minimum of two stands will enable you to level the boat fore and aft. Use one stand for every 10 feet of length along the keel.

Balancing the boat is crucial. Position one adjustable stand every eight feet with a minimum amount of threaded rod exposed. The base should be parallel to the waterline and as far out from the keel as possible, generally tucking the pad into the chine. Thread the pads up, one side at a time, and finish when they are secure against the hull and the boat is level abeam.

It is important to place the blocks or timbers underneath the keel and ensure they are level and can bear the weight of the boat. The keel stand pads should be screwed up flat, and you should use one stand for every 10 feet of length along the keel.

When using blocks, opt for good-quality ones that can bear the weight of the boat. The blocks or timbers will carry almost the entire weight of the boat, so quality is essential.

Place stands an even distance apart along the boat

When placing your boat on stands, it is important to ensure that the stands are positioned correctly and securely to support the weight of the boat. Here is a detailed guide on how to place the stands an even distance apart along the boat:

Firstly, determine the number of stands required. The number of stands needed depends on the size and weight of your boat. For smaller boats, four to six stands are typically sufficient, while larger boats may require more. As a general guideline, you should use one stand for every 10 feet of boat length along the keel.

Next, place the stands an even distance apart along the boat. Start by positioning the stands at the designated jack points, ensuring they are level and secure. The stands should be placed on a solid and reasonably flat surface. If the ground is loose, it is recommended to place a small piece of plywood beneath each stand to prevent it from sinking.

When positioning the stands, ensure that they are perpendicular to the hull and apply the necessary pressure without damaging the boat. The stands should be snug against the hull, and the base should be parallel to the waterline, extending out from the keel as far as possible.

For keel support, you can use concrete blocks with wood on top, but keel stands with threaded rods are more convenient. Keel stand pads can be screwed up flat, and you should use one stand for every 10 feet of length along the keel. This will help to level the boat fore and aft.

If your boat still has the rigging on, it is advisable to add an extra set of stands to ensure the vessel remains stable in heavy winds. Additionally, consider using a stand with a V-top at the bow for extra stability.

By following these steps and ensuring that the stands are placed an even distance apart, you can securely support your boat during storage, maintenance, or repairs.

Position adjustable stands every 8 feet

Positioning adjustable stands every 8 feet is crucial for balancing your hollow keel boat effectively. This placement ensures that the weight of the boat is distributed evenly, preventing it from tilting or settling unevenly. Here are some detailed instructions to help you position the stands correctly:

Firstly, ensure that the ground beneath the boat is solid and reasonably flat. This provides a stable base for the stands and prevents settling. Even if the surface is asphalt, it is recommended to place the stands on plywood bases to distribute the load evenly and protect the stands from softening due to heat.

The keel of your boat will bear the majority of the weight, so it is crucial to support it adequately. Position keel stands or blocks underneath the keel to bear the weight. You can use concrete blocks with wood on top, but keel stands with threaded rods are more convenient as they can be adjusted to level the boat. A minimum of two stands is necessary to level the boat fore and aft.

Now, for the adjustable stands, position one every eight feet along the length of the boat. The base of each stand should be parallel to the waterline and placed as far out from the keel as possible, usually tucked into the chine. The pads of the stands should be threaded up gradually, one side at a time, until they are secure against the hull and the boat is level from side to side.

Remember to use stands that are designed to bear the weight of your boat. For boats weighing less than 20,000 pounds, traditional jack stands are sufficient. However, for heavier boats, stackable jack stands may be required. Additionally, consider using safety chains with the stands to enhance stability and security.

By following these instructions, you will ensure that your hollow keel boat is securely and evenly supported during storage, maintenance, or repairs.

Use a stand with a V-top for additional stability at the bow

When putting a hollow keel boat on stands, it is essential to consider the specific requirements of your boat type. For boats with a deep V-shaped bow, it is recommended to use a stand with a V-top to provide additional stability at the bow. This type of stand is designed to support the unique shape of the bow and prevent it from dropping forward.

To ensure the stability of your boat, it is crucial to position the stands securely on flat and firm ground. If you need to place the stands on softer ground, make sure to use dunnage or plywood bases underneath the stand to prevent it from sinking. The placement of the stands should be guided by the boat manufacturer's recommendations, which can be found in the owner's manual or by contacting the builder directly.

The V-top stand should be positioned at the bow of the boat, with the V-shape of the stand matching the angle of the boat's hull. The central shaft of the stand should be adjusted to form a right angle (90 degrees) with the bottom of the boat. This will provide optimal stability and support.

When using a V-top stand, it is important to consider the weight capacity of the stand and ensure it is rated for the weight of your boat. Additionally, safety chains can be used in conjunction with the stand to provide additional security. By following these guidelines, you can effectively utilise a stand with a V-top to enhance the stability of your hollow keel boat when stored on stands.

Place a small piece of plywood under each leg to prevent sinking

When placing a boat on stands, it is important to take measures to prevent the boat and the stands from sinking into the ground. The ground should be solid and reasonably flat. Even asphalt will give way, especially if it gets hot. To prevent sinking, place the stands on plywood bases to spread the load and prevent the stands from settling. Place a small piece of plywood under each leg of the stand to distribute the weight and ensure that the stands remain stable and secure. This is crucial for keeping the boat steady and preventing any damage or accidents during storage.

The plywood used for the bases should be strong enough to support the weight of the boat. For larger boats, thicker and more substantial plywood may be required, while smaller vessels can use lighter plywood. In addition to the plywood bases, wooden blocks or timbers are necessary to provide almost all of the boat's weight. Ensure that the blocks or timbers are of good quality and are firmly placed underneath the keel with no gaps between them.

When placing the boat on the stands, it is also important to follow the correct procedure to prevent damage to the boat. First, the boat must be cleaned, and all gear and equipment should be removed to reduce weight and prevent damage. Then, carefully position the stands at the designated jack points, ensuring they are level and secure. Choose stands that are rated for the weight of your boat and have a broad base for stability.

Once the stands are in place, slowly and evenly lift the boat onto them, using a hydraulic jack. Take your time and be sure to double-check the stability of the stands and the boat before leaving it unattended. By following these steps and paying attention to detail, you can safely and effectively place your boat on stands, ensuring it remains secure and protected during storage or maintenance.

Frequently asked questions