Thank everyone for their answers. I believe Dave has the correct answer by virtue of having actually looked past the glass at the lead itself. I am hoping that his solution will also be mine. There's no better way to spend a Saturday afternoon elbow deep in resin, cloth, matt and filler. Love the smell of fiberglass in the morning!
I wrote to Ted Brewer to ask if he remembers anything about the methods of the keel construction. He kindly sent a reply, see below:
Mr Brewer
I am the owner of a Morgan 382, hull #53, built in 1978. We are having a discussion on the Morgan38.org board as to whether the encapsulated lead keel is a solid one piece block or multiple ingots encased in resin. The question was brought up by me because this summer we hit a rock and damaged the leading edge of the keel. The damage appears to be superficial and no water has entered the boat. What I am concerned about is the possibility that water may have entered the space between the lead and the hull. And if so, can it be drained out by drilling holes in the bottom of the keel when the boat is up on the hard.
I am hoping that you might have some insight into this question. Thank you for your help.
Jim Cleary
_________________________
Jim
I'm sorry but I cannot help you with your question.
Although I designed the hull lines, sail plan, deck plan and layout of the 382, all the construction drawings were done by Morgan to suit their normal standards. And, as I recall, these were high standards.
But, since Morgan has closed, you might be better to contact a Morgan owner's group for an answer to your question.
Fair Winds
Ted Brewer
_________________________
I think it was very nice of him to take to time to respond. So tomorrow, or Wednesday, when she is on the hard, I am going to drill a hole at the bottom of the keel to see if any water leaks out. If none appears I'll just patch the ding. If there is water, I'll let it weep until it stops, then go ahead with the patch. Stay tuned for further adventures.
Jim