Posted by brian johnson on
URL: https://forum.seahawk17.org.uk/Find-the-leak-tp4024941p4024944.html

I really wouldn't seal the keel box. The keel makes a huge difference to the way the boat sails, especially to windward, but also on a reach.  With the keel down the boat is much more stable and stands up to her canvas better.  Pedros had the same hull but with no drop keel but they were fitted with smaller sails.  I sailed alongside one on the River Dart. It was slow and really didn't sail well to windward.  I would try to fix the leak first, then make sure you have a proper way to lock the keel up.  My Seahawks both had pins through the grab handle to secure the keel.  
I'mm guessing that your keel was forced downwards and has cracked the front edge of the box.  That should be fixable with West system epoxy.