03-28-2005, 04:15 PM
that part is called an anode You need anodes on your engine because when two different metals are in contact, electrons will flow from the more negatively charged metal (anode) to the more positive metal (cathode). If you want to protect both types of metal from corrosion, you must add a third metal such as zinc, although magnesium and aluminum are also used. This active metal becomes the anode for both metals. The zinc or aluminum sacrifices itself to protect the other two metals, hence the term "sacrificial anode".
Seawater is a good conductor and freshwater a bad conductor, so corrosion is worse in seawater. Generally, corrosion rates increase in proportion to the amount of oxygen in the water. However, cracks and crevices, which are areas starved of oxygen, become anodic and corrode also. Higher temperature increases corrosion rates - doubling for every 30 degrees C (55 degrees F). There are various types of microorganisms that can contribute to corrosion, either by removing protection or causing a corrosive environment.
they do make a little difference with the alignment with the boat if not properly aligned and they are very sensitive to adjustment.
as far a torque, that could also be a factor but another thing to concider is the adjustment of your steering cable.
Most boats pull to the right a little bit. another thing to consider is the way that the load is distributed. do you have a little more weight on the one side? (fuel tanks, battery, trolling motor)
does your boat have trim tabs? they can also cause your boat to pull one way or another.
Hope this helps
DZ
[signature]
Seawater is a good conductor and freshwater a bad conductor, so corrosion is worse in seawater. Generally, corrosion rates increase in proportion to the amount of oxygen in the water. However, cracks and crevices, which are areas starved of oxygen, become anodic and corrode also. Higher temperature increases corrosion rates - doubling for every 30 degrees C (55 degrees F). There are various types of microorganisms that can contribute to corrosion, either by removing protection or causing a corrosive environment.
they do make a little difference with the alignment with the boat if not properly aligned and they are very sensitive to adjustment.
as far a torque, that could also be a factor but another thing to concider is the adjustment of your steering cable.
Most boats pull to the right a little bit. another thing to consider is the way that the load is distributed. do you have a little more weight on the one side? (fuel tanks, battery, trolling motor)
does your boat have trim tabs? they can also cause your boat to pull one way or another.
Hope this helps
DZ
[signature]