Electrolytic Conversion Indications

[sandycohen]

Can anyone give me direction on how to check various metal parts of boat (DC wiring system, spars, keel, chainplates) for current that would be causing electrolytic conversion?

I've found some decent articles online about how to properly wire your DC and lightning systems, but nothing on how to know if you've got a problem to begin with. I have a 30+ year old boat that is new to me, and has alot of terminals connected to various metal parts of boat i.e. chainplates all over.

Muchas Gracias

[Maine Sail]

You need a corrosion reference cell and a DC digital multimeter. The reference cell is made of silver/silver-chloride and they run anywhere from $100.00 to $250.00 depending upon where you find it. Make sure you get one with a long enough lead. Some are only 20 feet and pretty cumbersome in terms of use on a boat...

[sandycohen]

Hi Again Mainesail and thanks for your help.

I've been doing some googling around and haven't found much - is this the culprit? Marine Reference Cell | Buckleys UVRAL

Do you know of a good article or reference on how to use it to detect electrolytic corrosion on boats? Again, I did do some searching, so not trying to be lazy.

Also FWIW I have no AC power connection so that isn't an issue.