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corrosion issues: Pods vs Sterndrives

Discussion in 'Technical Discussion' started by btyson, Sep 6, 2017.

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  1. btyson

    btyson Member

    Joined:
    Aug 19, 2009
    Messages:
    36
    Location:
    port of kimberling, mo.
    Perhaps this issue has been dealt with before but I'm curious. My reading tells me that in salt water, Sterndrives can be problematic yet it strikes me that Pods and Sterndrives are similar in regards to "metal hanging out in the water". If one is superior to the other with regards to corrosion, why? (I'll be looking at crusing boats in the 40`50 range and staying in the water year around.) My experence has been with Sterndrives in smaller boats in fresh water.

    Thanks!
  2. Capt J

    Capt J Senior Member

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    Jul 11, 2005
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    14,432
    Location:
    Fort Lauderdale
    The PODS have a lot better grounding systems. Better zinc systems, and different materials........the pods seem to generally do fine in saltwater.......stern drives OTOH DO NOT.
  3. Fishtigua

    Fishtigua Senior Member

    Joined:
    Jul 20, 2007
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    2,937
    Location:
    Guernsey/Antigua
    Having worked with Volvos and Mercruisers for the last 12 years, I wouldn't touch an outdrive for any money.

    Big outboards, Pods and good old shafts any day.
  4. btyson

    btyson Member

    Joined:
    Aug 19, 2009
    Messages:
    36
    Location:
    port of kimberling, mo.
    Thanks guys!
  5. T.K.

    T.K. Senior Member

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    Jan 31, 2007
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    Location:
    Cairo - Egypt
    I agree, galvanic corrosion on stern drives is very common in salt water.