APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
The 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.
Please pay particular attention to the notes on new
boats, aluminum boats, trailer rollers, anti-fouling and boat bottom paint
.
Typically, the KeelGuard is mounted 4 to 6 inches above the waterline on the bow, ending at
least 2-3 feet beyond the lowest point of the Keel. If protection is required above the bow eye, a
separate Bow Guard is available in 1ft to 3ft lengths. A stainless steel bow protector is also
available to protect against marring from the trailer roller or V brace. For personal watercraft,
begin the KeelGuard approximately 1 inch below the bow hook and run the length of the keel,
ending 4 to 6 inches forward of the pump intake. (Installing the KeelGuard too close to the pump
intake may cause cavitation on some PWCs). Also, some newer designed PWCs have stepped
hulls that may require shorter lengths. Please contact Megaware KeelGuard to determine
feasibility.
Installation consists of four basic steps.
1) Etching 2) Cleaning 3) Priming and 4) Applying or
Burnishing.
Average installation time is 45-60 minutes depending on the length of the
KeelGuard. Follow the same instructions for both aluminum & fiberglass boats.
Your KeelGuard kit comes complete with everything you need to professionally install the
KeelGuard,
except
a cleaning agent used in step 2. EPA regulations make the shipping of this
material cost prohibitive; however, the cleaning agent is readily available at most automotive,
paint or hardware stores.
IMPORTANT!
Remember, the bond is only as good as the surface to which it is applied. Severe
damage to your boat’s keel, repairs that have not been done professionally, or any surface paint
or gel-coat that may not have the proper bond to the boat’s original finish, can cause de-
lamination of the KeelGuard, taking any loose or improperly prepared paint with it. It is
important to have a good solid, surface before you start.
Note:
If your trailer is designed such that the entire weight of the boat rests on the rollers or a
support beam along the keel, we do not recommend installing a keel protector. If the rollers can
be lowered or the side bunks raised to clear the rollers, the 3M adhesive bond will not be
compromised. May not be suitable for some aluminum boats with protruding reinforced rib
design. Please contact Megaware KeelGuard for specifics.
