Guidelines

What is anode electrode MerCathode system?

What is anode electrode MerCathode system?

The MerCathode system provides automatic protection against galvanic corrosion. It is a solid-state device that operates off a boat’s 12-volt battery and provides protection by impressing a reverse blocking current that stops the destructive flow of galvanic currents.

What is the anode on Mercruiser for?

Mil-Spec magnesium anodes are designed to provide superb corrosion protection for Mercruiser outdrives that operate in fresh water only. They are the strongest anodes available but should not be used in salt or brackish water.

How do I know if MerCathode is working?

Connect the black meter lead to the terminal on the controller. Connect the red meter lead to the end of orange wire. If using the blue or black Mercathode controller, the reading should be 25 or less milliamps, to as much as 200 milliamps in saltwater areas.

What causes outdrive corrosion?

When a stainless prop is in close proximity to an aluminum housing in water, an electrical current is formed between the two items and the weaker metal will usually loose molecules into the water. This is Galvanic Corrosion. Galvanic corrosion can be a very destructive force and it can eventually destroy your outdrive.

When should I change my boat anodes?

Zincs should be replaced when about half of the anode has been lost to corrosion. Ideally we want that to occur not more frequently than annually. The longevity of a sacrificial zinc anode is a function of its weight. When a zinc lasts less than a year, you need one with more weight.

How does the MerCathode system work?

The Mercury Precision MerCathode system provides automatic protection against galvanic corrosion. It is a solid-state device that operates off a boat’s 12-volt battery and provides protection by impressing a reverse blocking current that stops the destructive flow of galvanic currents.

What does the MerCathode do?

When should MerCruiser anodes be replaced?

Remember, anodes provide less and less protection as they dissolve, so be sure to change yours when they are 50 percent consumed.

What anode do you use in freshwater?

Magnesium
Freshwater: Magnesium is the clear anode of choice. It offers superior protection in this low conductivity liquid. Zinc anodes are not suitable for use in freshwater because they build up a hard, dense coating over a period of months – rendering the anode less effective.

What kind of anode is mercathode used on?

Mercathode is for Mercury and is an anode, used on a bunch of things, like water heaters, cars and big ships so they are not just salt water. They prevent corrosion and are really a sacrificial anode. Now that I have said all that, let the experts have at it, LOL.

Where is the anode located on a boat?

The Anode is mounted outside the boat on the very bottom of the gimbal housing assembly. It is a black plastic device which is held in place with two bolts. The Anode is what produces the invisable protective field around the drive unit. The Anode must be kept clean and should never be painted.

Where is the controller located on a mercathode?

The Mercathode system has two parts; the Controller and the Anode. The Controller is located in the boat and it’s usually mounted on the engine. The Controller sends a signal to the Anode which develops a protective field around the sterndrive unit to protect it against gal;vanic corrosion.

Why are sacrificial anodes called MerCruiser anodes?

Mercruiser Anodes…often referred to as zincs. Sacrificial anodes counteract galvanic corrosion by adding a third metal into the circuit, one that is quicker than the other two to give up its electrons!