What is this?

[drewpster]

There is a plate that bolts to the bottom of the engine bracket of my mercury. It is held on with 2 1/4 bolts and appears to be aluminum. I though it may be a zinc. What is this for? If possible I need to remove it to uncover a blocked drain that it partially covers. I can put it back on if it is needed, but I don?t know what it is for. Can I leave it off?

 

[drewpster]

Re: What is this?

Just found out it is an anode kit. I boat in fresh water and I trailer the boat. Is there a problem leaving this off?

 

[usskydvr]

Re: What is this?

You can leave it off.

 

[wtxmale]

Re: What is this?

if you leave it off every bolt in your lower unit will corrode,,as well as your prop if its stainless...dissimalar metals in contact with eachother with elec current causes corrosion,,,the annode prevents this,,fresh or salt water..every elec. water heater has one to prevent corrosion...DO NOT LISTEN TO ANYONE WHO SAYS YOU DON'T NEED IT

 

[Mi duckdown]

Re: What is this?

Exactly
.Merc/johhson, REASON. Galvanic( SP) reaction.
It happens less in fresh water. but why take a chance.
Google Galvanic.

 

[usskydvr]

Re: What is this?

The was assumption that this was an add-on. You should still have the trim tab sacrificial anode.