Should I paint the transom seal groove?

[fishaman]

Bayliner 2452, 93, 5.7 with Bravo II.
Getting ready to put the transom assembly with a new upper swivel shaft back. The previous transom seal never leaked, but the groove got some corrosion from the inside because of the leaking upper swivel shaft. I have removed the flattened old seal, and cleaned and sanded the groove, so should I paint it now, or leave it bare aluminum? Any shared experience will be greatly appreciated.

 

[fishaman]

Re: Should I paint the transom seal groove?

Also, what kind of paint will be good for the groove? It should be compatible with bellows adhesive, and will be underwater... Will Rustoleum high gloss be OK ?

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: Should I paint the transom seal groove?

Howdy,


I had a similar situation with my Bravo before I installed it. The "groove" was scratched and there was exposed aluminum. I also had some other areas that needed to be sanded and painted.....I cleaned it up with sand paper and and primed it with zinc chromate primer.

Then I painted it with a good quality black enamel. You don't need any kind of adhesive on the seal.


I think I may have used Rustoleum gloss black! If you are worried about it I think most Mercury dealers do have Mercury "bug-bomb" black for outdrives....


Cheers,


Rick