Nauticstar Offshore Series, Owner'S Manual

Page: 80 / 84

OFFSHORE SERIES OWNER’S MANUAL
OFFSHORE SERIES 80 | P a g e
SECTION 10: MAINTENANCE
CORROSION PROTECTION
Galvanic corrosion (electrolysis) is the decomposition of metal due to the effects of electrolytic action. When two (2)
dissimilar metals are immersed in a conductive fluid (e.g., salt water), an electric current is produced, much like the action
of a battery. As the current flows, it takes with it tiny bits of the softer metal. If left unchecked, severe damage may occur
over time. If the boat is operated in salt, polluted or brackish waters, even temporarily, the boat should be equipped with a
transom-mounted aluminum anode to prevent damage to those metal parts coming in contact with salt water. The
aluminum is, by design, self-sacrificing. It is slowly eroded away by electrolytic action and requires periodic inspection for
deterioration. When the aluminum has eroded to approximately one-half (1/2) of its original size, it must be replaced to
continue protection, or damage to other metal parts may result.
SALTWATER CARE AND MAINTENANCE
•
Rinse the boat with fresh water after each use in salt water:
• Bilge
• Hull and deck including all underwater gear
• Upholstery
• Carpet
• If a boat has removable floor covering it should be removed for drying
•
Rinse metal components with fresh water and wipe down with WD-40:
• Aluminum dash plates
• Steering wheel
• Tower components
• Engine
• Handrails
• Cleats
• Glovebox
• Walk-thru door
• Exposed Seat frame
• Windshield frame and stanchions
•
Spray motor mounts with a corrosion inhibitor at least once a month
•
Inspect anodes and replace when they reduce to 50 percent of their original size