Maintenance - saildrive anodes

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saildrive anodes

Printed From: Laser 28 International Class Association
Category: Laser 28 General
Forum Name: Maintenance
Forum Description: All the things to care for your boat
URL: http://www.laser28.org/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=142
Printed Date: 18 May 2024 at 3:02am
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 11.03 - http://www.webwizforums.com

Topic: saildrive anodes

Posted By: Guests
Subject: saildrive anodes
Date 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

Replies:

Posted By: Bill Brock
Date 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 (http://www.eaa1000.av.org/technicl/corrosion/galvanic.htm"> 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