ANODE SHAFT 65mm

Function and technical context

The shaft anode is a cathodic protection element designed to be installed directly on the boat's propulsion shaft, acting as a sacrificial metal that corrodes preferentially compared to the nobler metal parts of the transmission system. Its function is to absorb galvanic corrosion that occurs when different metals (shaft, propeller, horn, bearings) are submerged in salt or fresh water with electrolytes, thus protecting high-cost critical components. This 65 mm inner diameter anode adapts to propulsion shafts of that size, guaranteeing firm electrical contact and effective coverage of the area most exposed to electrolysis. Without adequate cathodic protection, the shaft and driveline components can suffer pitting, loss of metal section and accelerated corrosion, compromising the structural integrity of the entire transmission and leading to serious breakdowns or strandings.

When to replace this part?

Shaft anodes must be inspected at least once a season or at each grounding, and replaced when they have lost approximately 50% of their mass, since below that threshold the cathodic protection is insufficient to safeguard the shaft and propeller. Symptoms of a depleted or improperly installed anode include visible pitting on the stainless steel or bronze shaft, erosion on the horn or propeller root, and in advanced cases, abnormal play in the shaft line bearings. Replacing the anode preventively every nautical season is the most economical measure to avoid replacing the shaft or propeller, operations that exponentially multiply the maintenance cost.

Compatibility table