Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Know the Risks of Using E15 Fuel?
E15 gasoline blend (15% alcohol) is usually restricted from sale during the summer. But with the rising cost of gasoline, it will be available at gas pumps across the U.S. during the summer months for the first time in more than 10 years. While it might be a worthwhile alternative for some cars and trucks, E15 is not a good option for marine engines. Among other factors, E15 fuel degrades the fuel lines and other internal parts of the fuel system, causes boats to run hot in some instances and breaks down and separates causing gumming and buildup, which can wreak havoc on an internal combustion engine.
We recommend that larger boats use the fuel from marina fuel docks. There is a great website to help you choose where you can get marine engine safe fuel. WWW.pure-gas.org
Maintenance Matters
Yamaha has a great website to show you that maintenance matters when boating. It gives you an outline of what you need to know and do before, during and after you put your boat in the water. The tips are applicable to any manufacturer, BRP, Yamaha or Mercury. Check it out. www.yamahaboats.com/boating-resources/maintenance-matters/
What do I need to know about corrosion?
The good news is that corrosion can be prevented! Marine corrosion is a fact of boating life, but you can protect your investment with diligence and proper maintenance. As the boat owner, you are the most important key to effective corrosion protection.
Here are a few guidelines to follow:
A) Magnesium anodes are suggested for fresh water ONLY.
B) Aluminum Anodes, or Zincs should be used in salt water.
C) Anodes and outdrives should be inspected on a regular basis for signs of corrosion.
D) Do not paint anodes.
E) Not all anodes are created equal, don't sacrifice your equipment with the use of poor quality aftermarket anodes.
Your particular boating environment may require that you install additional anodes or other protective devices.
Corrosion can be caused by many factors, such as the wrong type or improper application of anti-fouling paint, marine growth, stray electrical current (electrolylsis), an improperly wired or damaged Mercathode, etc. These types of conditions are not covered by a warranty.
Please see the next two questions to find the two different applications of corrosion protection.
What is a Galvanic Isolator and what does it do?
A galvanic isolator is a solid-state device that is series connected in-line into the boat's green safety grounding or earth line lead ahead of all grounding connections on the boat. This can be done internally in the boat or by using a plug in waterproof unit. This device functions as a filter, blocking the flow of destructive low voltage galvanic (DC) currents, but still maintaining the integrity of the safety grounding circuit. A galvanic isolator is only necessary on boats utilizing a shore power connection. Be sure to also use sacrificial anodes and do not paint sacrificial anodes.