SPARE ZINC 51 x 10mm.

Function and technical context

This 51 x 10mm replacement zinc acts as a sacrificial anode, protecting itself to preserve the boat's most valuable metal parts from galvanic corrosion. It works within the cathodic protection system of the outboard motor or propulsion unit, interposing itself between the noble metal of the drive unit and salt or brackish water. Being the least noble metal in the electrochemical equation, zinc preferentially oxidizes, preventing corrosion from attacking the engine foot, shaft, propeller or aluminum casing. Without an anode in good condition, the degradation of the structural metal can occur silently and accelerated, compromising the mechanical integrity and tightness of the propulsion assembly.

When to replace this part?

The most obvious symptom of a depleted zinc anode is the visible reduction in its mass: when the anode has lost approximately 50% of its volume, it must be replaced without delay, regardless of the time elapsed. The review must be carried out at least once per nautical season and, in vessels that navigate in waters with high conductivity or that remain moored continuously, every six months. Replacing zinc preventively is one of the most economical and effective maintenance operations to avoid costly repairs due to corrosion on aluminum or stainless steel parts of the drive train.