Rust on driveshaft splines VP 2000 SX-M (Photo)

[cmyers_uk]

S/n 4202006908 SX-M 1.66 Yr 2000 VP Outdrive.

Removed the drive for the winter found rust on the drive shaft in small area. See Photo :

http://gallery.me.com/chrismyers#100...&bgcolor=black

1) No rust on universal joints or sign of water damage
2) No water in bellows, bellow appeared seats and sealed.
3) No sign of water in the grease in gimbal bearing
4) Splines were well greased at beginning of season and drive came off no issues.

It appears the rust is just in the area between a few inches after the gimbal bearing and where the splines go into the engine.

Where should I start looking for this issue?

Regards

Chris

[Bond-o]

Ayuh,....

That's the little bit of the shaft that's exposed inside your boat....

I don't think you Have an issue...

[cmyers_uk]

So just clean it off (it was only surface rust) cleaned up fine and grease better next year?

Thanks Bond-o

Chris

[Don S]

Yes, just clean it up. If you want, you can even paint the exposed area of the shaft from the splines to where the taper for the orings starts. Then it won't rust. Or, just spray your engine compartment with corrosion guard. I really like the VP stuff. Spray everything that can rust.
That's one of the best things you can do with any saltwater boat.
When it drives, it's a waxy coating that keeps the engine shiny and not sticky.

[cmyers_uk]

Many thanks , consider VP Corrosion Guard ordered. Good to know its not more serious issue.

Many thanks

Chris

[Don S]

A hint when using that corrosion guard.
Put it in a pan of hot water, (Not boiling, just out of the tap) for a while till the contents warm up a bit. Sprays a lot more even.

[JustJason]

that tip works epecially well with spraybombs too.