Do I need it?

[ml8163]

I have an 87 mercruiser 3.0L with the Alpha drive. I tore the prop up pretty good yesterday (don't ask...) and I went and bought a new prop. The original prop is a 14.5" 17P. The new prop I bought is a 14.8" 17P. The new prop is hitting the anode above. The prop shop told me I can take it off, because the only real purpose it serves is to prevent corrosion if the boat sits in the water long term. Is this true? I wasn't so sure about this and thought I would ask. What is the purpose of the anode? Can I take it off? Should I take it off? Should I replace the prop with a prop of the original prop size? Should I just modify the anode so it doesn't hit the prop (there isn't much contact)? Thanks for your help...

Mike

 

[qaztwo]

Re: Do I need it?

If you are referring to the fin ( trim tab anode) you can buy a offset one that will allow your prop to clear. I had same problem when I installed high perf prop, used a grinder and took off about an inch.

 

[bhammer]

Re: Do I need it?

Do you have power steering on this boat? If not, it could become a bear to steer. The fin helps the drive steer as well as act as a corrosion source. If you have P/S, you can remove it and replace with a plug.

On an older boat, I modified mine. I used a dremmel and file to make the prop fit. If you go this route, make sure you leave enough room for the blade flex that will occur.

 

[oops!]

Re: Do I need it?

the purpose is to prevent electrolisis....no dont take it off....you NEED it.

you can get different shapes even flat ones.....just get a different one that has the clearance for your prop

 

[ml8163]

Re: Do I need it?

No power steering. Thanks for the help guys. I think I'm going to take the grinder to it.

 

[Nandy]

Re: Do I need it?

to add to the others, dont paint it!!!

 

[marine4003]

Re: Do I need it?

looks like you boat inland,might want to switch to an aluminum or magnesium anode for better protection,especially if boat is kept in a marina ( lots of juice running thru the H2O).In any case trim the thing...