Other Do I really need this on the cylinder???

[Liquid Graffix]

The screw that holds this piece in my cylinder is stripped out. I just yanked it out completely. Do I need this thing in there or am I fine to run without it??? What does it even do??

 

[Matt_E]

It's the sacrificial anode. It is primarily for protection in saltwater (though it does do some work in fresh water, too). It keeps the cylinders from corroding.

 

[superjetbrad]

helps but no need mine stripped too

 

[kevbo]

It doesnt work with open loop cooling systems.

 

[tor*p*do]

It doesnt work with open loop cooling systems.

of course it does. works with all systems.
it is just a sacrifical electrode that corrodes before the inside of the water jacket corrodes
why do you assume it wouldnt work with open cooling?
they use these on all offshore out-boards

 

[Rickster]

Torpedo, are the anodes made of zinc, aluminum or magnesium?

To be effective, it matters...

;-)

 

[BruceSki]

zinc

 

[Matt_E]

It's not magnesium, and I doubt its aluminum (the cylinder is aluminum).

 

[Liquid Graffix]

I'll keep it in the tool box for now. If i get some extra time, I'll pull the head off and see if i can tap it to get the screw back in. For now I wont worry about it. Thanx guys.

 

[BruceSki]

If you flush enough, it isn't necessary.

For the people who leave a ski floating in the water for a few days(couchers mostly) then yes you should have it.

I ride once or twice a week and flush shortly after riding. Haven't had a problem with a cylinder corroding because of a missing anode.

 

[Rickster]

It's not magnesium, and I doubt its aluminum (the cylinder is aluminum).

So it's only truly effective in salt water, and only when immersed in salt water... As soon as you shut the engine off, the water drains out of the head and it is no longer effective.

Get rid of it and don't worry about it IMO...

 

[kevbo]

of course it does. works with all systems.
it is just a sacrifical electrode that corrodes before the inside of the water jacket corrodes
why do you assume it wouldnt work with open cooling?
they use these on all offshore out-boards

I say that they dont work for this application because they dont dissolve, even in very old cylinders.

 

[augustaf]

I say that they dont work for this application because they dont dissolve, even in very old cylinders.

x2