Keel Armor

By Jan Mundy

Whether you’re cruising in the shallows, landing on a beach or launching at a concrete ramp, Megaware KeelGuard (Tel: 800/292-9835, web: www.keelguard.com) protects keels from abrasion, chafe, dents, rocks — whatever lurks below. Ideal for all wood, aluminum, fiberglass, plastic or rubber boats, it consists of an extremely durable and abrasion-resistant polycor composite band held permanently in place with 3M VHB (Very High Bond), a pressure-sensitive acrylic industrial adhesive. It bonds so well, the company offers a lifetime warranty.

Available in 13 colors, two widths and in lengths in 12" (30cm) increments from 4' to 12' (1.2m to 3.6m) to fit boats 30' (9m) and longer. Kit prices range from US$100 for boats up to 16' (4.8m) to US$235 for 30-footers and larger. No curing time is needed, so allow an hour for installation before launching.

For our 22' (6.6m) test boat, we ordered the 7' (2.1m) white kit in the larger width of 5" (12.7cm) at a cost of US$156, which is a lot less expensive than major fiberglass surgery should we hit a submerged rock.

1 Clean keel area, remove any algae or dirt with an acid cleaner and antifouling paint.

2 Beginning at the forefoot, pencil mark the centerline and width, extending 2-1/2" (63mm) out on either side. Continue measuring down the keel the length of the KeelGuard, adding an extra 2" (52mm) at the end (aft) to allow for the curvature; otherwise, after laying down the material it may be necessary to cut off any excess or reprime any untreated keel surface.

3 Mask along pencil marks with 3M Fine Line or 233 tape to prevent marring the gelcoat when sanding. Tape also acts as an edge line for applying primer and attaching band.

4 Sand the surface hard to remove hull wax, pencil marks and other contaminates with 3M Scotch Brite pad (provided). Sight down the keel line — any glossy areas require additional sanding. Follow with a solvent cleaning.

5 To apply 3M primer, push foam applicator hard against the hull until foam is wet with glue. Draw applicator sideways over surface, applying a thin coat, extra along the edges. Primer is odorless and not messy, so gloves are not necessary. Wait five minutes for glue to cure. Unroll KeelGuard and lay flat in sun until supple, about five minutes in 90°F (32°C) temps.

6 Starting at the bow, pull back about a foot of the red plastic liner and align the band. Working from the center, one side at a time, pull back the tape and press on by hand or use the burnishing tool to remove all trapped air. Position carefully as the bond becomes permanent immediately upon contact. Continue working towards the stern and once completely attached, press entire surface down firmly with burnishing tool. Make sure all edges are down. Remove tape, wipe off any excess adhesive and go boating.