Quick Anodes question

[drifter]

I've read that they can get a film on them if you pull the boat making them less effective. I don't fully understand this but my question is, can I go ahead and replace my Anodes now without problems? I plan on splashing late march. In the past they get replaced the same time I bottom paint and I splash within the week. I'm just trying to spread out projects and do them as time permits verses all at once this year. Thanks in advance.  (I'm in brackish water and replacing with aluminum)

[Dream 'Inn]

I'm in the same area as you, and never had a problem with a film on the anodes.  I've had a boat where I left in all summer and out all winter, and my current boat is on a lift, so most of the time out of the water.

Definitely not an issue putting new anodes on now for the next season.

[Rinker342]

I agree with Dream Inn.  I, too, am in the same area and I replaced mine when I winterized, though I usually do in the spring.  Don't see a problem either way.

[hanzelvh]

There is a difference between Aluminium and zinc anodes.
Aluminium film is not a problem (mainly the used Alu anodes looks like moon landscape), however when you have Zinc anodes, which have been used the season before, these have the "white layer" on it which must be cleaned up to the zinc layer (by grinding or hammering  ) before putting in the water again.
I do not change them every year (have the Alu ones), however after 2 years perhaps they can have another year  but looking to the risk, I change them than during winterstop.
Quite expensive for the 3 small pieces of metal, pay Eur 150,-- (equals > $ 200,--)

Hans

[drifter]

Thanks so much guys! I thought so but wanted to make sure. Looks like a nice weekend project.