[TakeFive]

I have tapped some threads in my mast. I need an anti-corrosive grease that will prevent galvanic corrosion between the dissimilar metals. I know I've seen this discussed here before, but can't find it right now.

What specific brand names do you recommend for this?

 

[Gust14882]

I use Locktite Blue to prevent corrosion on SS to aluminum connections and it seems to work well.)

 

[transmitterdan]

Tef-Gel and Lanocote are the two most popular. Both are insulators and they are not going to set up or dry out so it is less likely that the screw will get stuck in the threads. Tef-Gel is expensive and Lanocote is less so. The distributor of Lanocote (Forspar) are supposed to have a new Teflon concoction but I haven't used it.

The best preventive maintenance is to flush all the hardware with fresh water regularly so salt doesn't sit for long.

 

[capta]

Any auto parts store will have an anti-seize compound for aluminum. It is copper colored rather than the standard grey. Been using it for many years w/o any corrosion problems between s/s and alloy.

 

[Minnewaska]

I'm sold on Tef-Gel. One small tube (it comes in a syringe) will likely last an owner a lifetime.

I used it years ago to coat the SS screws that hold an access panel to the furler on the mast. Each season, they would be slightly corrode together. After applying, zero issues. In fact, I keep forgetting I did it and find the white grease like paste still there from last year. I've reused them without reapplying for few years now. With some of the recommended products above that dry, you would need to clean them off and reapply each time.

 

[Multihullgirl]

You want the Permatex nickel (silver coloured) anti-seize compound, since if you use the copper-based one you've introduced a third dissimilar metal....

 

[TakeFive]

What is a good source of Tef-Gel? Some online places seem to want to charge high shipping charges for a little 20 cc tube.

 

[svjobeth]

What is a good source of Tef-Gel? Some online places seem to want to charge high shipping charges for a little 20 cc tube.

I've been able to get it from the local West Marine store, or from an independent chandler in my area.

 

[Minnewaska]

I ordered it from Jamestown Distributors. Not sure of shipping, it was probably combined with a larger order at the time.

 

[TakeFive]

As usual, West Marine's price for Tef-Gel is about 20% higher than JD and others, but I have $20 in bonus dollars from WM, so I went ahead and ordered it with free shipping to the store in New Castle, DE.

 

[H and E]

I have been using clear fingernail polish for years. It seems to work well and easy to acquire. I also use a product, LPS3 on those fasteners that are removed for inspection annually.