I've no idea if it's applicable to ss keel bolts in a lead keel, but it's
certainly possible to detect loss of bolt thickness caused by corrosion for
steel bolts in concrete foundations - as used in chair lifts, power wire
towers etc. Ring a few local non destructive testing companies, it's
reasonably specialised but you might find someone with the right equipment,
experience, and an interest in boats ...
Has to be better than taking off the keel!
David
"Steve Lusardi" wrote in message
...
Jim,
Normally the keel bolts will be cast into the leadballast and are not
removable without recasting the keel. They will appear as long studs and
fasten thru the floors with nuts and washers.
Steve

"Jim Conlin" wrote in message
...
The one way to tell if there's a problem is to remove a couple of bolts.

"Daniel" wrote in message
...
I recently hauled my boat and after few days I noticed allarming
coloured streaks oozing out of the thin crack (very thin and of little
concern by itself) between the keel and the hull.
The colour of the streaks is green-blueish, something that suggests
copper sulfate, and sort of shiny that suggests micro-cristals.

According to the boat makers the keel bolts are AISI 316 SS and the keel
is of lead.
The boat was made in 1978.

Do you have any suggestion? Do I have to drop the keel and check the
bolts? I would rather avoid it, if not really necessary.

Thank you
Daniel