To remove gouges, nicks, and grayed wood, start with 80 grit sandpaper and progress through 150 and 220 grits.

Do not apply Watco in wet weather or extreme hot or cold temperatures.

Before applying Watco make certain that the gunwales are clean and free of moisture.

Re-oiling is necessary when the gunwales feel rough or appear dry. Repeated testing has convinced us that Watco Exterior Natural is the longest lasting and best performing wood oil available. Gunwales and decks have received three coats of Watco Exterior Natural Oil. Gunwales are subject to more routine abrasion than the other parts, so we oil them – oil penetrates the wood, instead of coating the surface. Northstar Wood Trim: All wood parts are finished with three coats of varnish except gunwales and decks. Use a Philips screwdriver and 3/8” wrench to tighten hardware (hint, turn the wrench and keep the screwdriver stationary and you’ll be less likely to strip the bolt head). Inspect gunwales, yoke, thwarts, seats, drops and decks for loose hardware.

Annual Inspection: We recommend you conduct a complete inspection of your Northstar canoe once yearly.You may use gel coat on a non-gel coated canoe. If the resin or gel coat has been abraded away and you can touch substantial cloth (aramid, carbon fiber or innegra) you should reseal the cloth.Do not wax your canoe – wax increases friction. Follow instructions on the packaging, and apply whenever water no longer beads on the hull. 303 allows scum, road grime and dead bugs to be wiped off easily. Protect the hull with frequent applications of 303 Protectant, which slows UV damage and keeps the hull clean.Scum should be removed – it increases friction. After paddling, clean your canoe with mild soapy water and a freshwater rinse to prevent scum build up.Taking a little extra time to lift over obstacles prevents abrasion and scratching of the hull. Don’t drag your canoe over sandbars, gravel beds, dead falls, beaver dams or shallow riffles.Never load or enter a canoe on dry land – make sure the canoe is floating. When loading or unloading your canoe always place it parallel to shore in ankle deep water so you can avoid damage while loading it.

A few simple steps will protect your investment for years of enjoyable paddling. You now have the finest production canoe available.

Little man in the canoe