Engine Rust

[offline2004]

I have a 1996 Hunter with a Yanmar 27.

Overall the engine runs great, but I noticed a few minor rust spots on the exterior.

What is the recommended maintenance course to deal with these and keep them from becoming a larger issue?

Thanks

[Irwin32]

I have never worried about small rust spots on the engine. After 30 years of sailing I have yet to regret ignoring these spots. Engines are pretty thick and rusting through would take a long time - like you and your children''s lifetimes.

If it makes you feel better, I would sand down the spots to shiny metal. I would go to an auto parts store and inquire about paint for engines and go from there. Another thing you could do is, after sanding, apply a think coat of oil over the spot.

[offline2004]

Many Thanks!!

[sailnaway]

Wire brush spray with OSPHO turns rust to primer and then engine paint. Don''t enhale to much good fan lots of air.

[offline2004]

thansk!

[kazmeister]

Don't know if anyone still has need for this advice, but the single best way to get rid of rust and keep it off of bare metal surfaces is to use a gun cleaning oil (metal conditioner).

Scrub the rust off with a green scrub pad and some oil (don't worry it will come off pretty easily), and then apply a very light coat over the entire surface and leave it there. Gun cleaning oil, or CLP (cleaner, lubricant, protectant) as we servicemen call it is ideal for this because it releases no toxic fumes like engine paint does, and it's non-flammable. Every few months wipe it off with a paper towel or shop cloth and re-apply.

You'll prolong the life of your metal hardware and with only a minimal effort. I use it on my engine and exhaust manifold on my truck on a regular basis.

By far the best product we have tested is Militec-1. It's far better than traditional gun cleaning oils, and while a little pricey (militec-1.com has an online store selling a case of 12 4oz. bottles for $85.00 US) it's definitely worth the cost. Supposedly you can use it as an additive to your oil (for the 4-strokers out there) for added protection of internal engine parts as well, but I haven't personally tried it.

Hope someone finds this useful!

-James

[administrator]

What have you found that works well over the winter months while the boat is stored?

I've been using Boeshield for the last few years with great results. Originally developed by Boeing to protect mothballed aircraft and engines, it's become popular in the boating industry.