[oatman]

I just picked up a aluminum 1982 Starcraft 18' c.c. boat for fishing up here in New England. I'll be trailering the boat and fishing both fresh and saltwater. My question is whether the saltwater will take its toll on the old girl or if a good wash down after each outing will keep her going strong.She's solid now and I'd like to keep her that way.

[crazy charlie]

The only time salt will take its toll on aluminum is when the boat is left in the water for an extended period of time.If you are trailering just rinse off the outside,but more importantly put fresh water in the bilge and let it work its way up to the front before you drain it all out.You will be fine for years and years.Charlie

[RatFish]

From my personal experience, charlie hit the nail on the head. Enjoy!

[Major Woods]

Also make sure the anodes are in good shape.

[SeaDawg]

Also, make sure you do not have galvanic corrosion, which happens if the boat ground system is tied to the hull. That is what causes 99% of aluminum corrosion in saltwater.I've kept aluminum boats for saltwater use (up to 18 footers), and never had any corrosion problems.Ron

[DJ]

oatman,Ditto seadawg. Just make sure NOTHING electrical is grounded to the hull.Other than that, no worries.

[Luna Sea]

Hi Oatman,I have a 20' Lund I use in salt water only. Rinsing it down after each use will help lots. Unfortunately I've left mine in a couple of times and found little pin holes in the transom when I pulled it. I think it's a matter of where I left it in though, generators/dock power can do damage. Think the pounding of the waves around here is likely to do more damage though, leaky rivets?Been meaning to post, and will start new one someday, "Nothings grounded to the hull, but the outboard is bolted to the hull" Should there be isolation washers between the two? SEA DOG????Oh, and welcome Oatman, what part of mass?