CATERPILLAR ANODE SERIES 2016

Function and technical context

The sacrificial anode for Caterpillar 2016 series engines is the component responsible for protecting the metal parts of the engine and the boat against galvanic corrosion caused by the action of salt or brackish water. Made of an electrochemically active alloy, it acts as a sacrificial electrode: it corrodes in a controlled manner instead of allowing the oxidation process to attack critical parts such as the engine block, heat exchanger or tail shaft. Without adequate cathodic protection, the structural metals of the engine are exposed to accelerated deterioration that can compromise the integrity of the propulsion assembly and lead to serious breakdowns that are difficult to repair.

When to replace this part?

The main indicator of exhaustion of a sacrificial anode is the visible reduction in its mass: when the anode has lost approximately 50% of its volume it must be replaced without delay, since its protective capacity decreases drastically before disappearing completely. In boats that navigate in salt water, it is recommended to inspect the anodes at least once a season and, as a general rule, replace them at each annual beaching regardless of their apparent condition. Replacing the anode preventively is the most economical maintenance measure to avoid corrosion damage to high-cost components such as exchangers, water shut-offs or engine blocks.

Equivalent manufacturer part numbers