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Anodes

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RRConboy

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Do anodes actual eat away like a block of salt, or do they get "used up" but still appear to be okay? I have a 1991 Evinrude 60 HP. Bought used. Runs fine. Wondering if anodes need changed. Look good, but...have they ever been changed?
 
When you install the new ones as Chris recommended, weigh them and write it down. When they lose about 50% of their weight, change them again.

Also, be sure they have a good clean, oil-free mating surface to the engine. On the big Honda's, there is actually a small cable that runs from one of the bolts for the main anode to a bolt on the stern bracket in order to assure better contact and protection.
 
Yeah, you're better off safe than sorry... anodes are generally not that expensive. Just makes sure you get the right kind for where you'll be boating (zinc, aluminum, or magnesium etc.)
 
RRConboy said:
Do anodes actual eat away like a block of salt, or do they get "used up" but still appear to be okay? I have a 1991 Evinrude 60 HP. Bought used. Runs fine. Wondering if anodes need changed. Look good, but...have they ever been changed?
Click to expand...

Ayuh,.... That is correct,...... They disappear,.....
 
RRConboy said:
Do anodes actual eat away like a block of salt, or do they get "used up" but still appear to be okay? I have a 1991 Evinrude 60 HP. Bought used. Runs fine. Wondering if anodes need changed. Look good, but...have they ever been changed?
Click to expand...
If you post photos of them, we can see their condition.

The anodes are a path to electrical ground (Brits call it 'Earthing) and if they're missing depleted or the connection to whatever they're attached to is poor, the other metals will be consumed by the effects of galvanic corrosion. This is a result of two dissimilar metals being in contact and in some cases, like Copper and Nickel, it begins immediately upon contact.

The link explains it more fully.

maritimepage.com

Sacrificial Anodes: A Guide To Marine Corrosion Protection

In the battle against corrosion, sacrificial anodes are the unsung heroes that protect metal structures from deterioration.
maritimepage.com maritimepage.com
 
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