How the retractable keel works?

Answer 1

I've only had experience with one, but here goes: They are hinged on the side of the top & have a cable attached the bottom of the keel. In the cockpit, there is a windlass which is wound & locked in place. This facilitates pulling up the keel all the way for running with the wind or leaving it only halfway down for reaching across the wind. Remember this: No keel, no steering!