Installation 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. For best results the KeelGuard should be installed at an ambient temperature of 60º or above.

Typically, the 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. For personal watercraft, begin the KeelGuard approximately 1 inch below the bow hook, running the length of the keel, and ending 4 to 6 inches forward of the pump intake.

Application Kit Included
Installs in one hour or less (no curing time necessary) 

Installation consists of four basic steps: 1. Etching    2. Cleaning    3. Priming    4. Applying
	Step 1 Etching (Scuffing) Before application of the KeelGuard, the fiberglass mold release agents must be removed. Etch or scuff the keel surface, taking off the gloss where the guard is to be installed. This helps remove the release agents or waxes and helps give KeelGuard's adhesive a better mechanical bond. The supplied pad is a mild 320 grit and will not damage the keel's gel coat or paint.
	Step 2 Cleaning After etching the hull, follow-up by thoroughly cleaning the area with acetone, toluene or zylene. The fiberglass keel should be wiped thoroughly using clean rags or paper towels and then re-wipe with another clean rag or paper towel, using one of the above recommended agents. Other solvents such as Acry-Lac cleaner, Liquid Sandpaper and Interlux 202 or other wash solvents containing Xylene or Toluene with Alcohol may be used.
	Step 3 Priming After thoroughly cleaning the keel area as outlined in step 2, it is time to apply a very thin coat of the 3M # 94 Keel Primer provided in the kit. The primer interacts with the adhesive to create a bond that will become stronger over time.
	Step 4 Applying Pull back the protective strips one side at a time up to 3 feet and begin pressing on with the blue tool. Work from the center out to ensure no air is trapped between the hull and adhesive. Do one side up to 3 feet and then the other. Continue working toward the rear in 3 foot sections until completed. After the KeelGuard is completely attached, go over it again with the burnishing tool applying strong force and pressure, making certain that all edges are pressed down firmly. No curing time is required. The boat or personal watercraft is immediately ready for use. If you have any questions, please call us at +44 (0) 1702 588065. Average installation time is 45-60 minutes depending on the length of KeelGuard.* The KeelGuard kit comes complete with everything needed 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 chandlers, paint or hardware stores.

* Please follow the detailed instructions included in the Keelguard Kit.

Note: If Your trailer is designed such that the entire weight of the boat rests on rollers along the keel, we do not recommend installing the KeelGuard.  If the rollers can be lowered or the side bunks raised to clear the rollers, the KeelGuard adhesive bond will not be compromised.  Some aluminum boats not recommended for KeelGuard installation.  Please contact GMT Marine for your particular application.