Does drive corrosion on outside pose mechanical risk?

[RaceCarRich]

Was looking at a boat (2002) that was used in salt for part of its life. The Alpha1 was corroded horribly. I noticed the non-insulated ground wire was just hanging there unattached. Can I assume that wire is part of the anti-corrosion system and being unattached is probably the cause for so much corrosion?

More importantly, is external corrosion indicative of internal corrosion (knowing much inside is oil coated) or pose any other mechanical risk?

Thanks

 

[alldodge]

The aluminum is just so thick, and if enough gets eroded, then yes things can break. What you see on the outside tells you a lot about how it was taken care of, also note the erosion is also taking place inside where the exhaust comes out and the motor

 

[ondarvr]

It's typically worse inside.

 

[tpenfield]

The metal depletion happens all over, not just where you can see. If the outdrive is badly corroded, then move along in your search and look at another boat.

 

[RaceCarRich]

Thanks. Appreciate it.