KEELSHIELD REMOVAL INSTRUCTIONS
- Remove the urethane part of the KeelShield. If it is already loose, grab and pull. Once you get it started it will be fairly easy to remove. If it is not loose you will need to use a putty knife or something similar and GENTLY insert it in-between the urethane and the hull of your boat. CAREFULLY pry the urethane away from your boat until you have enough to hold onto with your hands and pull.
- You now have a layer of adhesive left on the bottom. Using a razor scraper and WD40 lubricant, scrape the thicker part of the adhesive off. Use the WD40 as a lubricant to keep the adhesive from sticking to your razor scraper. Be sure to scrape carefully and not gouge the fiberglass.
- What is now left is a very thin layer of adhesive that NO solvent (lacquer thinner, acetone, MEK…) will remove. We have gotten the best results using Carb or Brake Cleaner or 3M adhesive cleaner & remover part # 08984. Spray a 6” x 6” section and wait 30-45 seconds; you should see the adhesive “lift” from your boat. A kind customer has advised that Goo Gone sprayed on left on a small area for 20 minutes will also lift the adhesive and it can be easily scraped off. Scrape it off with your razor scraper, plastic scraper or putty knife being careful to not gouge your fiberglass. Be sure you work a small area at a time.
The following items are available for professional or dealer removal.
- 3M’s stripe / graphics removal discs. These are not readily available for consumer purchase.
- We’ve been informed that PPG Shop Line Series # JX101 wax and grease remover will take off the thin layer of adhesive quickly. We have not tested this yet.
- Once all of the adhesive is gone, be sure to completely clean your hull thoroughly. If there is any residue from the product you used to remove the adhesive from your hull, your new KeelShield will not bond. You now need to follow the directions for installation found in your KeelShield kit.