Salt Water Impact

[bradley]

I have only been around fresh water boats. I understand the obvious overall impact of salt on a boat. Are there specific items that are more effected ie. parts of the engine, hoses, etc.? Any help on common items that make sense to replace if buying a salt water boat to be used in freshwater? Thanks I have enjoyed reading all the helpful info in these forums.

 

[Skeetobite]

My understanding is that your zincs will be used up at a faster rate in saltwater. Also, corrossion on clamps and other exposed materials is pretty fast. My only experience is in salt water so I couldn't tell you any of the actual differences concerning the engines.

 

[Sundancer]

Find out if the boat has FWC or not. That's rather important and makes a difference. Beyond that, manifolds and risers seem to get chewed up in saltwater about every 4 or 5 years from what I've heard. I'm a freshwater boater, so I have very limited knowledge!

 

[tdappleman]

I'd say all of your maintenance is increased to a certain degree. The exhaust manifolds and risers are expensive wear items as Sundancer mentions. When rust and corrosion is in the exhaust system or engine it will circulate through the entire cooling system. You can then get scale and also mineral buildup in all of the hoses which should be checked regularly. The most important thing is to flush the engine and drive after each use to ensure you are getting as much of the salt out as you can.

Boating in salt will also mean corrosion on other parts and systems as well. Look at all of the seacocks, fittings, clamps and make sure they are all in good shape and working correctly. Engines can have surface rust which should be cleaned and painted if possible to prevent rust through.

If you are going to put it into fresh water then a good survey including engine/drive/exhaust work will tell you the overall condition and if anything needs to be repaired or replaced prior to the purchase. Once you have the boat in fresh water then you need to ensure you keep on the maintenance even though the wear and tear will be minimized some.

 

[Two Peas]

I'm a fresh water boater, but found John Hampton's writeup to be the most informative salt water boat maintenance primer I've seen on CSR so far:

http://clubsearay.com/forum/showthread.php?t=27716

Read it all. It is eye-opening. Makes me feel like we get off easy on maintenance expenses up here in the Great Lakes.