What does the MerCathode do?

The Mercury Precision MerCathode system provides automatic protection against galvanic corrosion. It is a solid-state device that operates off a boat’s 12-volt battery and provides protection by impressing a reverse blocking current that stops the destructive flow of galvanic currents.

How do I know if MerCathode is working?

If your boat is equipped with a Mercathode system, there is a simple way to test if the system is operating properly. The goal is to check the output from the Mercathode controller. When the boat is in the water, disconnect the orange wire that comes from the anode at the mercathode controller.

How do you test a MerCathode system?

Connect the black meter lead to the terminal on the controller. Connect the red meter lead to the end of orange wire. If using the blue or black Mercathode controller, the reading should be 25 or less milliamps, to as much as 200 milliamps in saltwater areas.

How much horsepower can a Bravo 3 take?

The Bravo 3 is available in a single or twin engine application and is capable of speeds up to 65 mph for gas engines up to 525 HP.

Where is MerCathode located?

MerCathode System Controller The MerCathode electrode is mounted to the underside of the gimbal housing. The MerCathode controller is mounted on the engine or on the boat transom.

When should Mercruiser anodes be replaced?

Remember, anodes provide less and less protection as they dissolve, so be sure to change yours when they are 50 percent consumed.

How much does a Bravo 3 lower unit weigh?

It is used for the standard Bravo Series, Bravo X series, and Bravo III XR – 2.00 ratio (Sterndrive Serial Number OW240000 & Up). This part weighs 79 lbs.

What is the difference between Bravo 1 and Bravo 3?

Both are the same model from the same manufacturer. Both are the same price and have the same engine. The only difference is the drive. One has a Bravo One, the other, a Bravo Three, both made by Mercury.

Where does galvanic corrosion occur?

anode
Galvanic corrosion occurs when two dissimilar metals are immersed in a conductive solution and are electrically connected. One metal (the cathode) is protected, whilst the other (the anode) is corroded. The rate of attack on the anode is accelerated, compared to the rate when the metal is uncoupled.

How do I tell what gear ratio my Bravo 3 has?

All Bravo drive unit gear ratios are identified on each drive in two places: A) The first place to look is on the decal on the port side of the drive housing. It will have a number such as (1.50R) and then the seal number.

How is the anode on a MerCruiser Bravo connected?

The anode is connected to the controller by two wires, one orange and one brown. If you keep your boat in the water for any length of time you NEED to have a Mercathode installed.More about this later. The Facts The Bravo III, when properly installed and maintained, can remain corrosion-free.

Why is my MerCruiser Bravo 3 stern drive not working?

If the Mercathode drains the batteries your boat could sink! The Mercathode Anode device on the bottom of the gimbal must remain clean of barnacles and underwater growth. If the Anode is damaged or covered with growth it may not operate and your drive will suffer galvanic corrosion damage.

Where is the mercathode controller on a MerCruiser?

Mercruiser has advised boat manufacturers that in possible extreme conditions of galvanic activity that a second Mercathode device be installed. The Mercathode Controller is the device in the engine compartment that sends a special signal voltage to the Mercathode Anode device on the bottom of the gimbal.

Why do you need mercathodes in a MerCruiser?

Mercathodes protect the drive unit from galvanic corrosion. The increased output provides greater protection for underwater aluminum parts. Its reliable, efficient operation requires an automatic insignificant amount of current when protection is needed.