After installing KeelEazy in the spring of 2017 I quickly learned that although it felt tough it can be beaten. Although better than most keel guard solutions it worked for about 4 fishing trips. So here is the KeelEazy extended Use Review.

See the install article here. Protect your kayak with KeelEazy

KeelEazy Extended Use Review

I applied this keel protection product to my Jackson Kilroy LT on March 19th 2017. The kayak is Thermoformed ABS plastic with an acrylic finish. THis review does not include typical polypropylene rotomolded hulls.

Installation was a fairly simple process although the bends around the bow and stern were tricky. The ridges that I flattened out on the bends appeared not long after the installation allowing sand and grit the enter. Over a short time the sand and grit worked deeper and the adhesive became filled with dirt which it separated from the hull of the kayak. Also sharp objects like oysters, barnacles and rocks tor through after one outing.

I replaced 18″ at the stern mid season. I was able to cut back the damaged portion and run the new portion while overlapping the old on top. The reasoning for the overlap was when dragging the kayak forward it would eliminate an edge that will collect dirt and sand. However it did not last where the boat rests when truck top loading and unloading eventually begun to separate rendering the Keeleazy useless where its most needed.

The product only failed at the bends and curves. Elsewhere along flat parts of the keel it has lasted time and is only scuffed from dragging the kayak up banks. Although this area has not seen nearly as much abuse.

Overall it maybe a good product just not for this application on the material of the Jackson Kayak LT.

Back to looking for the best keel protection solution.

The Plastic Hull gives this product a 2 star rating.

KeelEazy is a PVC product manufactured to protect Thermoformed kayak keels. The Keel is a part of the kayak that protrudes along the center of the underside of the hull. Thermoform ABS plastic being both strong and thin is actually more abrasive than typical Poly rotomolded kayaks. To extend the life of the kayak and to protect your investment I recommend installing Keel Easy. KeelEazy will protect your kayak against abrasive scuffs, wear and scratches to the keel.

Installing KeelEazy is actually really easy. You can choose to protect the entire keel or just the bow and stern areas which receive the most abuse. KeelEazy comes in seven different colors!

1. Black
2. White
3. Orange
4. Blue
5. Green
6. Red
7. Yellow

It also comes in different widths however 2″ is the best for most kayak applications.

Install Video:

KeelEazy Installation:

I opted to install the Keel Guard on the entire length of the keel. I ordered 14 feet so there would be a little extra just in case. Overall length of the Kilroy LT is 12′-11″.

Step 1: Clean the entire keel area with a clean rag and rubbing alcohol. Let dry. Level off any existing scratches with a razor blade.

Step 2: Round off the beginning edge. (This is not in the video) By folding the edge in half length wise and cutting an arc out it will round off the leading edge for a cleaner look after installation. This is optional.

Step 3: Using a razor blade peel back the protective backing.

Step 4: Place the sticky side down starting 6″ min at the bow. Roll it out and remove the backer keeping the keel guard sticky side down. Keep centered on the keel.

Step 5: Warning: Do not apply too much heat. If you burn the keel guard you will need to replace it with a brand new piece.

Step 6: Using a heat gun slowly heat and mold the keel guard to the bow and the curve in the keel. Using a roller or round tool work out the bends and kinks.

Step 7: Continue using the heat gun in small areas heating up the keel guard and pushing it down. You may want to use a glove because it can get pretty hot.

Step 8: Round off the stern edge.

Step 9: Repeat heat and apply.

Complete!

KeelEazy is available as a Kit or per by the foot from The Kayak Fishing Store.

Disclaimer:

Installing aftermarket products may cause damage and/or void manufacturer warranties.  ThePlasticHull.net its authors or any other source of information on this website is in no way responsible for your actions nor any type issues or damage that may occur.  The information provided on this website is a free reference guide only. The authors of all information, sponsors and the owners of the website that host this information are not liable for any problems or issues that arise from the use of this information. Users of this information hereby acknowledge that all use of this information is done by their own free will, at their own sole risk, understanding that destruction of property, injury, or death could occur.