Bravo 3 White Scum Removal

[mosher0330]

What’s the best way to remove the white scum/build-up from the top of the Bravo 3 gear casing without damaging the surface? I’m aware of what causes it and planning to install a drive shower in the Spring, hoping I can finally get rid of the mysterious oil disappearance as well!!

 

[Bill Curtis]

Anything acidic, like vinegar, will usually take it off.

 

[Korkie]

Mysterious oil disappearannce is most likely the seal(s) on the prop shaft. Don't let it go to long as water will eventually get in and that can be expensive.

 

[mosher0330]

Mysterious oil disappearannce is most likely the seal(s) on the prop shaft. Don't let it go to long as water will eventually get in and that can be expensive.

I agree. Had the unit pressure tested last year and they changed the prop shaft seals. It didn’t leak a drop this whole summer and then all of the sudden started losing a bit of fluid (1-2oz) again, no signs in the bilge, around prop, or sheen on water. Everything I read says that unit gets so hot that the fluid exceeds the 13lbs of pressure and pushes fluid out the seal. I just changed the lower end oil this weekend and there was no water intrusion. At this point I’m going to try a drive shower as many folks, including the manufacturer websites, says this stops fluid loss under these conditions because it lowers drive temp by 65+ degrees. Guess we’ll see!

 

[mosher0330]

Anything acidic, like vinegar, will usually take it off.

Appreciate the response, this material has been on there quite a while, so vinegar didn’t even scratch the surface.

 

[Scott215]

They absolutely lower the temp. Good for bravo I heard you don't them for alpha's

 

[Lazy Daze]

Try heavy duty vinegar - you can get it at HD/Lowes. It's MUCH stronger than regular vinegar. Or try saturating a rag with your vinegar and let it set on there for a while.

Muriatic acid will work, as well. "ON & OFF" is a brand that is easily found.

It's sort of hit or miss as to why some Bravo's get the white, hard water stains and others don't. Probably some combination of the water you're in and how hard you're working the drive. But, yes, a drive shower will help.

 

[mosher0330]

Try heavy duty vinegar - you can get it at HD/Lowes. It's MUCH stronger than regular vinegar. Or try saturating a rag with your vinegar and let it set on there for a while.

Muriatic acid will work, as well. "ON & OFF" is a brand that is easily found.

It's sort of hit or miss as to why some Bravo's get the white, hard water stains and others do. Probably some combination of the water you're in and how hard you're working the drive. But, yes, a drive shower will help.

Never considered muriatic given I would think that could damage the surface if not diluted enough. Will give both options a try!

 

[Lazy Daze]

Nah, you're fine with muriatic on the paint.

 

[keokie]

Nah, you're fine with muriatic on the paint.

Yep, the drives and gel coat do fine with muriatic acid, but painted (usually not as good as outdrive paint), galvanized, and aluminum boat trailers will be marred by it. Also, chrome, and polished stainless/aluminum surfaces can be dulled considerably. A good tub and tile cleaner is a few steps down from muriatic acid, but will often do the trick.