Zinc Anode on 15Hp Evinrude (1976)

[OptsyEagle]

I noticed this thing on the cavitation plate of my motor. Wasn't sure what it was so I removed it and searched the part number and found out that it was a zinc anode. I am assuming that pretty much tells me that my motor was once used in salt water.

My question then is: is there any other use for these anodes and since I will be using it in fresh water, is it OK to remove them and do I need to do anything other than just unbolt them (repaint metal area that they covered, etc.)?

If my motor was used in salt water, is there any parts that I should look at closely to replace due to corrosion, etc. Right now I am in the process of figuring out why it has no spark.

 

[smsscuba]

Re: Zinc Anode on 15Hp Evinrude (1976)

Hi ,

An outboard engine should always have some form of galvonic protection on it..ie the anode. It should be no more than 50% worn and not painted over.

Although you say you wish to use your outboard in fresh water only, galvonic corrosion still take place. Without any protection, the next metal on the galvonic table is the aluminium body of the outboard and its will slowly dissolve away.

Many have argued about the types of anodes to use, I have searched the net and much is spoken about using magnesium in fresh water, as it is the last element on the galvonic table that reacts with fresh water, much more quickly though in salt water.

The answer therefore is yes, make use of an anode always.

Happy boating!