Rubber keel protector?

[nateo]

So I'm looking at a 2006 205 Sport. It had a narrow piece of rubber running down the center of the bottom of the boat. Is this some sort of factory optional protector from beach sand and whatnot or is likely hiding some damages like scratches or something. I have not seen this on any other boat.

 

[GrimmSpeed]

We put one on our 260. They are great for keep the gel coat from getting scratched up. I wouldn't assume there is a problem, they probably just put it on as a precautionary.

 

[Creekwood]

^^+1
Probably a KeelGuard or similar.
https://www.keelguard.com/

 

[chrishick]

One of my boats had one of those. It came off while on a plane and got wrapped up in the prop.

 

[Gofirstclass]

I just put a Keelguard on my Whaler. They're great if you ever plan to beach the boat.

 

[Creekwood]

One of my boats had one of those. It came off while on a plane and got wrapped up in the prop.

Probably not installed right.

 

[BillK2632]

I personally don't like the way they look, but if you beach your boat frequently it is really a must have.

 

[dburne]

As has been mentioned, it's purpose is to protect the keel when beaching the boat. Undoubtedly the previous owner put it on, or had it put on.

Personally, I just don't like beaching my boat - don't want to scratch up the fiberglass, especially with it being an I/O as well. Not too fond of getting sand in the impeller.