Anodes for engines and drives
Sacrificial anodes protect metal parts below the waterline and inside raw-water cooling systems against galvanic corrosion. Instead of allowing the saildrive, sterndrive or cooling-system parts to corrode, the anode is gradually consumed.
Our selection includes pencil anodes for engines and heat exchangers, as well as ring, split-ring and bar anodes for saildrives and sterndrives. You’ll find anodes for Volvo Penta, Yanmar, Nanni and other boat engines and drives.
Zinc, aluminum or magnesium?
The correct material depends mainly on the water in which the boat is used:
- Zinc is traditionally used in salt water.
- Aluminum can be used in salt and brackish water and is now specified for many modern drives.
- Magnesium is intended for fresh water and should not be used in salt water.
For anodes fitted inside an engine, heat exchanger or oil cooler, follow the engine manufacturer’s specification. Do not change the material simply because the boat has moved to a different marina.
If you own a Volvo Penta engine or drive, you can also view our dedicated
Volvo Penta anodes.
Check and replace your anodes
Inspect external anodes whenever the boat is lifted and check internal pencil anodes during normal engine servicing. Replace an anode when a large part of the material has disappeared, when it is badly pitted or when the manufacturer’s service interval has been reached.
An anode must make clean electrical contact with the part it protects. Do not paint it and do not apply sealant between the anode and its mounting surface. Clean the contact surface before fitting the new part.
Anodes that look alike can have different threads, diameters or mounting-hole spacing. Compare the original part number and check the measurements shown on the product page.
You can find filters, impellers, belts and other items under
engine service parts. If you are unsure which anode you need, send us the engine or drive model, the old part number and a clear photo.
