Zinc Question

[SamR]

I noticed that the zinc on my lower unit was a little loose. I gave the bolt a bump with a socket wrench and it's still rattles a little. It looks intact but I am new to this type of thing. When do you know it's time to replace your zinc?

 

[DaleH]

When do you know it's time to replace your zinc?

Usually when 1/3rd gone, though some designs can 'still work' when 1/2 gone. I rough them up bright with a silicon-carbide rotary sanding tool.

Zincs only work when they bear up hard against the parent metal. I'd add a nylon washer or two under the bolthead so it is tight up against the motor bearing surface it will rest against. I try for the best fit here I can get, tight to each other.

Oh yeah, for example, Boater's World sells for $12 the same zinc that West Marine sells for $18. My wholesale cost on the same zinc is $7 ... what a markup!

 

[SamR]

Thanks Dale. The washer idea is a great one