Mercruisers in fresh water?

[tank1949]

We learned years ago that MC outdrives don't last long if stored in salt water, regardless of any bottom paint used. Anti-fouling paints work to a point, but if you keep your boat stored wet in salt water, you are going to experience MORE problems than storing it dry.

But, what about storing boats with MC outdrives in fresh water? Do you have the same problems? I see a lot of boats for sale around the Great Lakes that have MC outdrives.

If anyone has experienced issues please respond. THX!

 

[alldodge]

Drives in water will corrode, salt will increase the rate. The Merc needs a fully working Mercathode, be inspected frequently and anodes replaced as necessary. The boat needs to be hauled out and maintenance done. at which time touch up should be done

 

[Grub54891]

Mines from 1985, and looks pretty good for it's age. Up north in Chequamagon bay. Most do pretty well in freshwater, there are a few that look pretty bad, The bad ones could be funky from electrolysis from stray currants from other boats in a slip, or issues with the boat itself. If your boat sits a lot, it'll get the normal scum, but use it more and it'll stay fairly clean. There's always the normal bellows issues and stuff but for the most part they are fine. As with any purchase, look hard before buying. One in particular I purchased, the owner was going to take it out but I bought it, and the lower unit was right on the edge of blowing out, Would not have made it a mile. But I knew that it was not maintained properly before purchase, luckily I know how to repair them.

 

[Scott Danforth]

We learned years ago that MC outdrives don't last long if stored in salt water, regardless of any bottom paint used. Anti-fouling paints work to a point, but if you keep your boat stored wet in salt water, you are going to experience MORE problems than storing it dry.

But, what about storing boats with MC outdrives in fresh water? Do you have the same problems? I see a lot of boats for sale around the Great Lakes that have MC outdrives.

If anyone has experienced issues please respond. THX!

Without proper maintenance, nothing lasts. With proper maintenance, they last a really long time.

Anodes have a 6 month life in saltwater, the mercathode system needs periodic service. Paint needs to be inspected every 6 months.

The gear oil and spline shaft needs an annual service, and the bellows need inspection annually.

If the boat is just dropped in water and left, no matter who's drives they are, expect 5 years max. If you want to drop a boat in and nearly forget it, go with a pure inboard with rudders (however even inboards need annual maintenance)