saildrive anodes

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   Just wondering about the zinc anode. Seems like many of the Laser 28s are in fresh water. I heard that Magnesium is the better choice vs Zinc for fresh water. Anyone have thoughts on this issue. I simply want to make the boat last as long as possible, so if magnesium is the way to go and there is an option, I would do it.

Best,

Scott

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Guests Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Guest	Post Options Post Reply Quote Guests Thanks(0) Quote Reply Topic: saildrive anodes Posted: 16 April 2007 at 8:27pm
	Just wondering about the zinc anode. Seems like many of the Laser 28s are in fresh water. I heard that Magnesium is the better choice vs Zinc for fresh water. Anyone have thoughts on this issue. I simply want to make the boat last as long as possible, so if magnesium is the way to go and there is an option, I would do it. Best, Scott

Bill Brock Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Skipper Joined: 08 February 2005 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 53	Post Options Post Reply Quote Bill Brock Report Post Thanks(0) Quote Reply Posted: 17 April 2007 at 9:43pm
	Hello Scott, I am not an expert in this field, but if you look at a Galvanic Table ( color=#810081http://www.eaa1000.av.org/technicl/corrosion/galvanic.htm) you will see that Magnesium is a better anode than Zinc, but just slightly better. I am not sure where one would purchase a Magnesium anode, but if you were to try to machine one it is important to understand Magnesium will burn if it gets too hot. Once on fire is very difficult, if not impossible, to extinguish as it burns much hotter than a normal fire. I would not recommend trying to machine one unless you are experienced in machining Magnesium. The real key to avoiding Galvanic related problems is to make sure the scale which accumulates on the surface of the anode during normal use is removed (filed off) so that the base metal (Zinc) is showing. This will permit the Galvanic process to continue to function properly through the Zinc. Hope this helps, Bill