12
C
ARE
/ M
AINTENANCE
CARE
HULL DISTORTION
Our rotomolded kayaks are made of high-
density linear polyethylene, which is virtually
maintainance free. A minimal amount of care
in storage and transporting will help the kayak
maintain a like-new condition for many years.
Polyethylene will become more flexible when
in warm conditions such as a hot, sunny day.
Improper storage or transportation of a plastic
boat, especially in the heat, can potentially
distort the shape of the hull on your boat.
If your kayak does become the victim of slight
distortion, correction is a simple process. Brief
exposure to the heat of the sun is often all it
takes to restore the hull to its original shape.
If that doesn’t work, the hull can usually be
restored by applying heat to the outside of the
boat with a hair dryer. Take care – high, focused
heat could cause damage.
When the hull is pliable enough, it can be
pushed back into shape by hand. A weight can
be placed inside the boat to maintain the shape
of the hull as it cools. Allow 24 hours to ensure
the process is completed.
CLEANING
Usually, a quick rinse of fresh water is all that
is necessary to keep your kayak clean and
functioning in good order. This is very important
after paddling in salt water. Be sure to rinse the
skeg, cables, and foot braces with fresh water
to remove salt residue. To minimize long-term
degradation caused by UV exposure, use an
ultraviolet protectant such as 303 Protectant,
available at your local dealer or HarmonyGear.com.
WHITEWATER CARE
Whitewater kayaks are built to withstand more
aggressive use than recreation or touring
models. However, a certain amount of impact
and abrasion damage is to be expected due to
the nature of whitewater paddling.
Continual exposure to abrasion can roughen
the hull surface. Scratching is often cosmetic or
superficial and requires no repair.
It is important to be able to determine when
damage is cosmetic or extends to impacting
the structure of the hull. Impacts are much more
likely than scratches to result in structural damage.
Inspect your hull after suffering a collision.
As strong and durable as it is, polyethylene is
not indestructible. However, should the worst
happen, it is repairable – simply contact your
local Dagger dealer.
REPAIR OPTIONS
Although it is unlikely that your Dagger kayak
will need any repairs during its lifetime, it is pos-
sible that a hull crack or puncture may occur due
to extreme impact or contact with a sharp ob-
ject. If this happens, contact your local Dagger
dealer to determine if the damage falls under
the boat’s warranty (see warranty section).
We will need the serial number of your kayak, a
good description of the damage (a photograph
is required) and a description of the incident
during which the damage occurred. All of this
information will help us determine the best
course of action.
WARNING
Avoid dragging your kayak across the
ground to prolong its life and maintain its
look and performance. Two people, using the
carrying handles, is the best way to trans-
port a longer kayak.
2010_DG_Owners_Manual.indd 12
4/26/10 9:32 AM
