Keelshield vs. Keelguard

[Purduebarry]

Which one's best, other than claims does anyone have a recommendation?<br /><br />1988 Bayliner, 5.0L, OMC, gel coat scuffed off from repeated beaching of the boat. The previous owner did it . Although, I'll probably beach it too which is why I think this will be a good long term fix!

 

[sloopy]

Re: Keelshield vs. Keelguard

I have used both, they are very similar and are hardly noticeable when installed correctly. Make sure you follow all instructions really clean the bottom. Do not use any soaps that contain waxes or perfumes as this will stick to the hull after the water dries and not provide a good surface for the adhesive to stick to. IE use Dial, then wet sand it, tsp, acetone, dry, Then install according to instructions.<br />Good luck.

 

[Purduebarry]

Re: Keelshield vs. Keelguard

Keel Guards "manufactured blend of the highest quality anti-abrasive materials" lost over 4 times its mass vs KeelShield with its "Dow urethane polymers" in abrasion resistance testing. <br /><br />Supposedly the difference is KeelShield is made of urethane polymers, not plastic or PVC-based like Keelguard. KS also says their pressure adhesive system is nearly twice as thick as KG. You've used both? Which would you choose to do over again? If it's a toss up which one looked better? I'll be beaching again and want the most bang for the buck!<br /><br />Also, should I re-gel first or just put it on over the scuff? Seems like it might stick better to the scuff???

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: Keelshield vs. Keelguard

I would use Keelshield. But only because the company is 5 miles from my house! The local news just profiled the owners earlier this week. Just a "local" couple who had an idea and a dream. They are trying getting into the bass boat market, and have sponsored a boat or two in the FLW, (I think the FLW). Good luck, whichever way you choose.

 

[Purduebarry]

Re: Keelshield vs. Keelguard

Ya I'm leaning this way too. After doing some research I like the composition of the KS better. The PVC can crack and fatigue, it has a different expansion ratio than the hull. I like the fact that the KS gang were second to market. It seems that they improved the product when they developed the KS, the adhesive is stronger and the material tougher, Urethane is the bomb-ditty. Also they made a good point about the groves. It is more compliant for forming to the hull and it actually helps the boat track better at midspeeds. Sort of channels the water rather than flair it. Thanks for the input.

 

[sloopy]

Re: Keelshield vs. Keelguard

They are very similar, I preferred the keel-shield because it was easier to work with. But the keel guard does seem a bit stronger and more well built, but this is only very slightly. If I tossed both to you and after you wipped yourself trying to catch them you would have a hard time telling the difference. (unless you have used them before)