Bottom of Hull Scratches

[Patman941]

Recently noticed numerous scratches in the bottom of the hull from the bunks. I assume this is normal, but I’m OCD and these scratches are giving me anxiety. Anything I can do to prevent this in the future? Best way to get these scratches out now is just buffing them out? Can I do anything like putting the trailer further into the water in order to stop the hull from hitting the bunks so hard?

 

[Pro Build]

I saw somewhere, that you should make sure when you back your trailer in to pick up your boat, that you back in deep enough to put your bunks under water first and then pull back out to the correct loading depth. The wet bunks will scratch less than dry bunks.

 

[Maccam26]

1 bourbon 1 scotch 1 beer....lol I have same issue, but I’m learning to cope they are underwater anyways. I try to be careful

 

[Seadeals]

The keel of the hull is what sees anything other than just water. It will wear over time. Even with a keel guard, any beaching will dull the gelcoat. Landings on the trailer will dull it too. The keel of my boat is very “seasoned”, so much that I would never try buffing it out to see myself in the gelcoat, yet every time I fill it up, someone at the gas station always says “nice boat, man”. My advice is to not worry about the business end of your boat and enjoy putting it to good use, while still avoiding or fixing any unfortunate abuse. Your other option is to never use your boat and keep it in mint condition in your garage without any of the memories. I am pretty OCD too and a perfectionist for sure; but my wife of 20 years as loosened me up and I have come to truly appreciate the wear and tear we have accumulated through our life together and the boat is similar now that we have enjoyed it for so many years.

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