Outboard Corrosion Protection

In the marine world, corrosion is a relentless adversary, constantly threatening the integrity and performance of boats. It’s “a boat owner’s arch-enemy.” This comprehensive guide explores the types of corrosion that plague boats, effective prevention strategies, and the critical role of maintenance in safeguarding your vessel.

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Understanding Corrosion in Marine Environments

Simple Corrosion

• Science Behind It: When metals like steel are exposed to water and oxygen, they undergo an electrochemical process, leading to rust and degradation.

• Prevention Strategies: Start with just keeping it clean then you want to protect it with a silicone spray. For long-term storage, use fogging spray or oil, depending on the engine type.

• Each time you take your boat out…spray it down with the silicone which basically encapsulates all the different exposed parts of the engine and keeps them from rusting.

Galvanic Corrosion

• Mechanism and Mitigation: This type involves two dissimilar metals in an electrolyte (like water), especially saltwater. You give it something a little bit softer to go after instead of that bronze propeller…those are called sacrificial anodes.

• It’s important to make sure that they’re all functioning otherwise…it’s going to attack the engine instead.

Stray Current Corrosion

• Causes and Solutions: Caused by electrical issues on the boat or dock, particularly on the DC side. Make sure that all your connections are actually watertight.

The Cost of Corrosion

Corrosion can lead to significant financial losses. The cost of replacing parts like outdrives, propellers, and even engines can be substantial. Regular maintenance and prevention are far more cost-effective than dealing with the aftermath of severe corrosion.

Case Studies and Real-World Examples

Discussing real-world scenarios where corrosion has led to significant damage can illustrate the importance of prevention. For instance, a case where a neglected boat required extensive repairs due to galvanic corrosion can serve as a cautionary tale.

Maintenance Tips and Best Practices

• Regular Inspections: Each time you run your boat before or after, check all your anodes…make sure you’re not starting to get any type of bubbling up with the paint anywhere.

• Cleaning and Protective Coatings: Regular cleaning and the application of protective coatings like silicone sprays can significantly reduce the risk of simple corrosion.

• Electrical System Care: Ensuring all electrical connections are watertight and regularly inspecting for stray currents can prevent costly damages.

Corrosion is an ongoing battle for boat owners. Prevention is worth a pound of cure. Regular cleaning, protective sprays, and vigilant maintenance are key to protecting your investment.

Merrill Charette

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