boaters as electrolysis. Zinc is a relatively cheap conductor compared
to other metal used on your propeller and stern drive. Due to zinc’s
higher electric potential, electric current in the water will commonly
fl ow to your sacrifi cial zinc anodes as opposed to your propeller. With
the electric current concentrated around your zinc anodes, electrolysis
attacks these anodes before attacking other more noble metals. Zinc
anodes in saltwater need to be checked more frequently due to the
higher potential of electrolysis accelerating corrosion.
With electrolysis targeting these anodes, they must be inspected and
replaced often so that an electric current leak continues to target these
anodes as opposed to your stern drive. Zinc anodes should be replaced
when 30% deteriorated. For the exact location of these anodes, check
your stern drive owner’s manual. If electrolysis continually targets
your anodes while docked at a marina, contact the marina personnel
to resolve the issue.
Damage due to neglecting anode inspection service is not
covered under Regal or engine manufacturer warranty.
Propellers_____________________________________
Out of balance or nicked props will effect performance or cause
vibration. Damaged props should be replaced, but those that are
chipped or bent can usually be reconditioned by a marine dealer or
a propeller repair facility. When cruising, consider carrying a spare
prop on board because many marinas do no offer a full inventory of
replacement propellers. Refer to the manufacturer’s engine owner’s
manual for appropriate stern drive propeller replacement.
Be sure to make a note of the propeller diameter and pitch while the
vessel is in dry dock. They are pressed into the prop for easy reading.
In an emergency, an aluminum propeller blade can be straightened
by laying the propeller on a 2 x 4 piece of wood and hammering the
7-21
Care & Maintenance
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