Adding Keel Guard to Ranger 29

[jpdewitt]

I have a 2012 R29 Sedan. We boat in Florida and would like to beach the boat where depths/conditions permit. To protect the boat we would like to install a keel guard to the front end of the keel extending up to the bottom of the first hull step.

Couple of questions:

1. Do you have any recommendations pro/con regarding this project?

2. The shipyard that plans to do the work asked if the keel was solid or cored fiberglass?

Thanks in advance for your assistance.

John and Della
Sunny Tug
Pensacola, FL

 

[knotflying]

In Florida I wouldn't think a keel guard will be necessary. I pulled my R-27 up to shore a few times. My smaller boat all the time. Big or small shouldn't matter. I assume you are getting off at the swim step anyway so just stay a little bit in the water and swim a couple of more feet.

 

[BB marine]

Solid Fiberglass, I have installed many of theses on trailerable boats. Mostly fishing boats and runabouts that like to beach. I don't recommend painting the keel guard with bottom paint. If you leave the boat in the water in Florida It might get some growth on it. I guess a few times of beaching will keep it clean. The key to a good installation is the prep. I assume the company that you are having do the install has done keel guard installs in the past so probably not an issue. I have done a lot of beaching over the years in the Johnson Beach intercostal side Big Lagoon. The beaches there are mostly sand but there is an occasional shell area or debris on the beach that could cause damage to the gelcoat. Sounds like it will be a good upgrade for your boat if you plan on beaching.

As Mike has stated if you approach the beach and do not land it on the beach you probably don't need a guard. I know many in the area you are in and other areas of the country do a hard beaching. This can be abrasive to the Gelcoat so the keel guard is a good choice if doing that.