Barnacle Bill the Sailor!

[Frank Acampora]

I just bought a salt water engine that was left down in the water for extended periods. The prop and lower unit are encrusted with old dried Barnacles anywhere from 1/4 to 3/4 inch in size. I have been scraping and while the tops come off, the bottoms of the shells seem to be much more difficult to dislodge.

Anyone have a good remedy to remove them without damaging the aluminum? Or, am I just going to have to bite the bullet and wire brush them then re-prime and paint?

 

[veritas honus]

Re: Barnacle Bill the Sailor!

Have you tried CLR, or salicylic acid?

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Barnacle Bill the Sailor!

the best tool for removing barnacles is a checkbook.
since they are on the motor, go ahead with a wire wheel or even heavier paint scraping device that attaches to a drill, then prime and paint the motor if needed.
I assume you know that what you bought is a neglected motor. No one with either knowledge or integrity would leave an OB down like that. Expect bigger problems unless it's fairly new.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Barnacle Bill the Sailor!

Thanks for the replies!

Yes, It was described as locked up and indeed it was. I saw its condition in the photo and bought it for 35 bucks as a junker to see if I could salvage anything.

Turns out, the engine is a 1997 50 hp Force in surprisingly good condition--other than the barnacles. I did pull the head and there is almost no carbon accumulation. There was slight rust which I removed seizing the bottom piston. Compression is 135 on both cylinders. The lower unit is free and shifts, prop is brand new, doesn't look like it has many hours on it at all. The only major damage is the bendix is worn and needs replacement.

 

[veritas honus]

Re: Barnacle Bill the Sailor!

Good deal Frank. Let us know how it goes. Have you tried the CLR or salicylic acid yet? If you mix a little flour or corn/potato starch to make a gel, it'll hold for a while letting it do it's job longer. You can also try a pressure washer, but if your not careful, you'll blast the paint right off.

Good luck. keep us posted. How 'bout some pics...

 

[jigngrub]

Re: Barnacle Bill the Sailor!

Wire wheel "cup" on a 4" angle grinder will make short work of those critters!

 

[mommicked]

Re: Barnacle Bill the Sailor!

Would any be inside the water inlet?or do they just grow on the outside of the lower.