Anode specifications for Marinette aluminum boats (Thanks to John Althouse of
Marinette, Inc.)
Material:
Although anodes are commonly referred to as zincs the proper anode for use
on the Marinette hull is actually a specially developed aluminum alloy with the
designation of KA90 or SEALLOY 150. These aluminum anodes because of their
material make up and the processing that they go through, give the same
protection level as magnesium. KA 90 and SEALLOY 150 were the anodes that the
boats were supplied with from the factory. Magnesium can be used, but only in
freshwater and it will deplete at a much faster rate than the aluminum anode
possibly leaving the hull unprotected if not monitored closely. Commonly
available zinc is too close on the galvanic scale to provide adequate protection
and should not be used. High purity zinc can be used but it is difficult to find
and does not provide as much protection as the aluminum anode.
Attachment:
Anodes should be bolted to bare metal with Stainless Steel bolts.
Do not use wire brushes made of steel or copper alloys to strip the aluminum.
(Ed. Pieces of the brush are cathodic, and don't use them in the bilge area. Wire-brushing
by hand with a stainless steel wire brush is sufficient to break up the oxide.
Mechanical cleaning of aluminum via power wire-brushing or grinding is not
advisable because of the low melting point.)
Anode requirements:
26, 28, 29.5
30 on each side of keel
12 on each trim tab
6 on each rudder
Total single engine 7 6
Total twin engine 8 0
32
36 on each side of keel
12 on each trim tab
6 on each rudder
Total 9 0
37, 39, 41, 44
54 on each side of keel
12 on each trim tab
6 on each rudder
Total 12 0
KA90/SEALLOY 150 anodes are available through Marinette Yachts 906-789-2248.
(Editor's Note: Pay attention to the CAPAC meter, My boat needed more than
the listed amount. Also some other owners tell me to expect that more polluted
and warmer fresh water will eat up magnesium anodes more quickly.)