Dagger Catalyst Owner's Manual - Page 8

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AINTENANCE

ROTOMOLDED KAYAK CARE

Our "roto" kayaks are made of high-density linear

polyethylene, which is virtually maintenance free. A

minimal amount of care in storage and transporting

will help the kayak maintain a like-new condition for

many years.

Polyethylene will become more ﬂexible when in warm

conditions such as a hot, sunny day. It is possible for a

kayak strapped tightly to a roof rack for a series of days

to temporarily deform at the weight bearing points. Use

a rigid bar sport rack in addition to a "kayak cradle" to

disperse the weight.

WHITEWATER KAYAK CARE

Whitewater kayaks are built to withstand more

aggressive use than recreation or touring models.

However, a certain amount of impact and abrasion

damage is to be expected due to the nature of

whitewater paddling. If you notice excessive wear or

gouging on the hull you should consider altering your

paddling technique to prolong the life of your kayak.

Continual exposure to abrasion can roughen the hull

surface. Scratching is often cosmetic or superﬁcial and

requires no repair.

It is important to be able to determine when damage is

cosmetic or extends to impacting the structure of the

hull. Impacts are much more likely than scratches to

result in structural damage. Inspect your hull after

suffering a collision.

As durable as it is, polyethylene is not indestructible.

However, should the worst happen, it is repairable;

simply contact your local Dagger dealer.

Next to damage during use, the greatest threat to the

kayak is degradation due to UV exposure. The kayak

should be stored out of direct sunlight, as the polyethylene

will become more ﬂexible in warm conditions.

CLEANING

Usually, a quick rinse of fresh water is all that is necessary

to keep your hull clean and functioning in good order.

This is very important after paddling in salt water,

especially if your boat is outﬁtted with a rudder system.

Be sure to thoroughly rinse the rudder, rudder cables,

and footbraces with fresh water to remove salt residue.

Superﬁcial scratches may occur, but can be removed or

reduced by use of a marine boat polish designed for

polyethylene hulls. Sanding or use of an abrasive

rubbing compound is not recommended.

To keep your kayak shining and minimize the long-term

degradation caused by UV exposure, use an ultraviolet

protectant such as 303 Aerospace Protectant, available

at your local Dagger dealer.

WARNING

Avoid dragging kayak across the ground to

prolong its life and maintain its look and

performance. Two people, utilizing the carrying

handles, is the best way to transport a longer

kayak. Alternately, you can transport using a

kayak cart, available at your dealer.