Updating the 2012 Outback help

I am still on the fence about buying the new 2019 outback so I have a few questions about upgrading the 2012 outback.

 1. Has anybody had any issues using the Mirage drive 180 in the older model hobies?
2. Has anybody installed the square hatch in a 2012 Outback?
3.  Those of you that have installed a hull/keel guard, how have they held up and what did you use ?

Thanks in advance.

I am still on the fence about buying the new 2019 outback so I have a few questions about upgrading the 2012 outback.

 1. Has anybody had any issues using the Mirage drive 180 in the older model hobies?
2. Has anybody installed the square hatch in a 2012 Outback?
3.  Those of you that have installed a hull/keel guard, how have they held up and what did you use ?

Thanks in advance.

I used a reverse drive in my inflatable at the chum derby, but I had to cut the guide pin off.  It is an addition to the 2015 and beyond drive if I remember right.  You may also be able to press it out.  I can't remember for sure.  I believe I had to cut that pin off for my older outback and 2014 revo. 

This was from the website:
The Hobie Rectangular Twist and Seal Hatch kit is the standard hatch on Hobie Pro Angler kayaks and can also be added to 2013 and newer model year Hobie Outback kayaks. The twist and seal allows for one hand operation and is a hinged lid that keeps the hatch with the kayak at all times. This kit includes the hatch, gasket, and hardware.

I smeared on JB Weld to protect a Trident hull, not a Hobie, but the results should be the same.  It sticks, it's protective, it wears like granite.  It's also darned messy to work with and mighty darned hard to get a good-looking and smooth application.  I put sme on, sanded it smooth, put more on, sanded again, and kept repeating that as necessary.

YMMV.