Keel Guard Self Adhesive Polymer Keel Protector

Megaware Keel Guard Self Adhesive Polymer Boat Keel Protector

The Megaware Keel Guard protects your boat's hull from scrapes and cuts. Easy to install, this boat keep protector is available in a variety of colors and sizes. Keel Guard is constructed from a durable and shock absorbent polymer composite. While tough, Keel Guard is also very pliable to conform to the shape of any boat keel. During application, the keel protector’s contoured edge creates a clean, tight seal. Megaware Keel Guards use 3M adhesives which create strength, while permanently bonding and sealing the boat keel protector to the hull’s surface.

Features:

• Protect against abrasive sand, rocks, concrete ramps and oyster beds
• Eliminate costly repairs
• Patented drag reduction design - will not slow your boat down
• UV-stabilized colors
• Increase the value of your boat
• No messy sealants needed
• Manufacturer lifetime warranty
• Made in the USA

Keel Guard Size Chart

How to Install a Boat Keel Guard

The Megaware KeelGuard is a very simple product to install; however, the following instructions must be strictly followed. Any short cuts or missed steps will jeopardize and compromise the full bonding capabilities of the 3M adhesive. For best results, the KeelGuard should be installed at an ambient temperature of 60º or above. Typically, the Megaware KeelGuard is mounted 4 to 6 inches above the waterline on the bow, ending 2 to 3 feet or more beyond the lowest point of the Keel. If protection is required above the Boweye, a separate Bow Guard is available in 1ft to 3ft lengths.  

1. Etch the surface where the Keel Guard will be installed.
• Any fiberglass mold release agents and wax must be removed.
• Use the included 3M Scotch-Brite pad.
• If your boat has antifouling bottom paint applied, it must be removed to expose the original gelcoat where the Keel Guard will be installed.
2. Thoroughly clean the area with isopropyl alcohol.
• Use paper towels or a clean rag.
• Repeat until there is no sign of residue. 
• Do not use paint thinner or other patroleum-based cleaners.
3. Prime with the included 3M #94 Keel Primer
• Apply a very thin coat of the included primer.
• Follow the instructions attached to the applicator.
• Ensure the entire area is primed, especially the edges.
4. Apply your Keel Guard
• Pull back the center liner approximately 8-10 inches exposing the 3M adhesive.
• Do not touch the adhesive with your hands.
• Center the Keel Guard along the keel and press it firmly in place using your hand or supplied burnishing tool.
• Continue to align the Keel Guard and peel back the center strip until the entire center is attached to the boat.
• Starting at the bow, pull back the protective liner on either side of the Keel Guard.
• Begin pressing it on with the burnishing tool.
• Work from the center out to ensure no air is trapped between the hull and adhesive.
• Continue working toward the rear until completed.
• Repeat the process for the other side.

Once fully attached, use the burnishing tool to apply additional pressure to the entire Keel Guard, ensuring it is firmly attached to your boat. A rubber mallet may also be used to apply even more force to the adhesive. No curing time is required.

Click to Download Keel Guard Application Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Megaware Keel Guard Self Adhesive Polymer Boat Keel Protector designed to do?

The Megaware Keel Guard protects a boat's hull and keel from scrapes and cuts caused by abrasive sand, rocks, concrete ramps, and oyster beds. It is made from a pliable, shock-absorbent polymer composite that conforms to the shape of the keel and uses 3M adhesive for permanent bonding.

What size Megaware Keel Guard should I use for my boat?

Megaware Keel Guard sizes are based on boat length. The 5-foot size fits boats up to 16 feet, 6-foot fits up to 18 feet, 7-foot fits up to 20 feet, 8-foot fits up to 22 feet, and 9-foot fits up to 24 feet.

How is the Megaware Keel Guard installed?

Installation involves preparing the hull surface, cleaning it with isopropyl alcohol, applying the included 3M #94 Keel Primer, and bonding the Keel Guard to the keel with its 3M adhesive. The supplied burnishing tool is used to press the guard firmly against the hull and remove trapped air.

What temperature is recommended for installing the Megaware Keel Guard?

For best results, the Megaware Keel Guard should be installed at an ambient temperature of 60°F or above. The supplied installation instructions should be followed carefully because missed preparation steps can compromise the bonding capabilities of the 3M adhesive.

What is included for installation of the Megaware Keel Guard?

The installation materials include a 3M Scotch-Brite pad and 3M #94 Keel Primer. A supplied burnishing tool is also used during installation. The hull should be cleaned with isopropyl alcohol before applying the primer and Keel Guard.

Does the Megaware Keel Guard require curing time after installation?

No curing time is required according to the supplied installation instructions. Once the Keel Guard is fully attached, additional pressure should be applied across the entire guard with the burnishing tool to ensure it is firmly bonded to the boat.

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