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Corrosion and Corrosion Protection
Whenever two or more dissimilar metals (like those found on the
stern drive) are submerged in a conductive solution, such as saltwa-
ter, polluted water, or water with a high mineral content, a chemical
reaction takes place causing electrical current to flow between met-
als. The electrical current flow causes the metal that is most chemi-
cally active, or anodic, to erode. This is known as galvanic corrosion
and, if not controlled, it will in time cause the need for replacement
of power package components exposed to water.
Refer to booklet "Everything you need to know about marine cor-
rosion" for more corrosion information, available through your Mer-
cury/MerCruiser Dealer.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO USE MAGNESIUM ANODES IN SALT
WATER. They will provide overprotection, resulting in a differ-
ent electrochemical reaction that will create hydrogen on the
metal surface of the drive, under the paint, causing the paint
to blister and peel completely from the surface of the overpro-
tected drive.
Mercury Marine recommends a MerCathode System or Anti-
Corrosion Kit be installed whenever using a stainless steel
propeller, or if boat is equipped with stainless steel compo-
nents (immersed below the waterline) that are connected into
the engine ground system. If a boat is equipped with stainless
steel after planes, a large anode should be installed on EACH
to handle the increased galvanic corrosion potential.
IMPORTANT: Replace sacrificial anodes if eroded 50% or more.
500 EFI Bravo
MAINTENANCE
WARNING
CAUTION
113
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