Keel Guards

[TSCTSC]

Has anyone tried sticking these keel guards on the bottom of the boat? Thinking of getting one so that I do not keep scrapping the paint and metal off when I dock on the sand in places where they do not have a pier or dock after launching.

[Smokey]

I put one on my fiberglass boat about 5 years ago, the boat was already 5 years old at the time and starting to show some wear on the keel. I was a little skeptical that the adhesive would hold, but to this day it is still stuck tight. I think that if you take your time, follow the directions, and make sure the bottom is clean before you start, you should be happy.

[Valv]

I agree with Smokey 100%.

Be sure you clean and have no grease on surface before applying it, use some surface prep solvent before installing.

[katoguy]

I did this 2 weeks ago. My keel was beat up! First you need to fill in any chips that are larger than 1/4". I just used a 2-part epoxy. The instructions also warn you not to install if there is a hole (i.e. water leak). After the epoxy dried (next day) I sanded it down. I installed the Keel Shield brand. You need to scuff up the area and wipe it clean with rubbing alcohol. The kit does come with a solvent that is a primer for the sticky-backed keel shield. Make certain to line it up straight, because once you touch the boat there is no removing or straightening!

Follow the instructions to a T. Easy and seems durable.