Retractable Keel Stuck

[Alton]

I purchased my first sailboat 2 weeks ago. A little San Juan 21. The retractable keel was covered in barnies. When the previous owners winched the keel in the kevlar sleeve was pulled in on the barnicals. The keel is now stuck. If anyone has suggestions on how i might fix it in the water i could use the help. I'm about ready to remove the sleeve.

[SabreKai]

I'm not familar with the boat but If theres an access port on top of the trunk, open it up, stuff a short 2x4 in there onto the keel, release the winch and give it a couple of good whacks with a mallet. It may not be too badly jammed. Otherwise, I'm out of ideas.

Sabre
84 days n a wake up.

[forsailbyowner]

I used to own swing keel. I've freed it by taking a hand saw and running it over both sides of keel. Without diving gear it takes a bunch of trips up and down but it can be done. Save saw for this purpose because it will never cut wood again.

[Alton]

i thought about making an access port.

[Alton]

I've solved the problem. thanks.