Polypropylene on CS 17 Keel for Abrasion Resistance?

[Dale Niemann]

Rob Macks of Laughing Loon kayak has recommended polypropylene as a protector of the keel on kayaks for abrasion protection.

I am thinking about using it on my CS 17 keel instead of stainless or bronze. I have already used in on the leading edge of the rudder and centerboard.

Or maybe Xynole cloth?

What do you all think of this idea?

Thanks

[rlchenry]

I bedded some threaded inserts into my keelson on my Spindrift 9N just so that I could try different materials on the bottom and also to replace any of it when needed. I currently have a Starboard strip on it.

Here is a pic of one of the threaded inserts in the keelson completely bedded in epoxy and watertight. This was before painting....

[Gordy Hill]

Dale,

I used polypropylene on the bunks of my trailer and the results were remarkable! I often launched off a causeway into about a foot of water and it took two of us to shove the boat off. With the poly it was very easy by myself.

I think it would be my first choice for the keel.

Gordy

[Gordy Hill]

Dale,

I used polypropylene on the bunks of my trailer and the results were remarkable! I often launched off a causeway into about a foot of water and it took two of us to shove the boat off. With the poly it was very easy by myself.

I think it would be my first choice for the keel.

Gordy

[Dale Niemann]

Gordy & Richenry.

Thanks for your feedback. I think I have just about decided to go ahead and try it. Will let you know how it goes.

[mustangermatt]

I used uhmw plastic as shoes on the runners of my dog sled. It will take gravel, pavement, you name it. A few passes with a plane cleans it nicely.