First Impressions of Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode
The Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode might not be the sexiest piece of gear, but it’s a vital component for anyone serious about protecting their boat’s stern drive. This small, unassuming part is designed to sacrifice itself to prevent corrosion, saving you from costly repairs down the line. Sierra International is a well-respected name in marine parts, so I had certain expectations for this anode’s quality and performance.
My search for the Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode started with a nagging concern about accelerated corrosion on my own boat’s outdrive. Living near saltwater means constant battle against galvanic corrosion, and I needed a reliable anode that could handle the harsh environment. I’ve used aluminum anodes in the past, but after researching the superior protection offered by magnesium in freshwater and moderately brackish environments, I decided to make the switch.
Upon receiving the Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction and clean finish. The material felt dense and substantial, giving me confidence in its ability to withstand the elements. It was noticeably heavier than the aluminum anode it was replacing, reinforcing my impression of higher quality.
I considered a few other anodes, specifically those from Martyr Anodes and Performance Metals. Ultimately, I chose the Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode due to its reputation for compatibility with Mercruiser Stern Drives and the positive feedback I found online. The slightly lower price point compared to Performance Metals also factored into my decision.
Initially, I was excited to install the Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode and start protecting my boat. This might seem like a small and inexpensive part, but preventing corrosion saves major repairs in the long run, giving me peace of mind. I was hopeful that the Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode would live up to its claims and keep my stern drive protected from the ravages of galvanic corrosion.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode on my boat, a 21-foot runabout with an Alpha I Gen II drive, in a moderately brackish river environment. Installation was straightforward, thanks to the anode’s precise fit with the existing mounting points on the drive. The entire process took less than 15 minutes using basic hand tools.
The water temperature fluctuated between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the testing period, with salinity levels ranging from 5 to 15 parts per thousand. I monitored the anode weekly for any signs of excessive wear or unusual corrosion patterns. After the initial month, the anode showed a noticeable level of sacrificial corrosion, indicating it was actively protecting the surrounding metal components.
The installation was trouble-free; however, I noticed that the screws that came with the anode were of slightly lower quality than the OEM ones, leading to a bit of hesitation when tightening them. After the first trip I checked the connection and it had worked itself loose. I would suggest using higher quality stainless hardware.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of continuous use, the Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode has held up remarkably well, given the corrosive environment it’s subjected to. There’s been a steady and predictable rate of sacrificial corrosion, which is exactly what I want to see. The anode is doing its job and taking the brunt of the electrochemical attack.
Despite the constant exposure to brackish water and occasional periods of inactivity, the Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode shows no signs of structural weakness or disintegration. The mounting points remain secure, and the overall integrity of the anode is intact. Regular inspections and occasional cleaning with a soft brush are all that’s been required to maintain its effectiveness.
In comparison to the aluminum anodes I previously used, the Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode has significantly outperformed them in this specific brackish environment. The aluminum anodes would develop a thick, hard coating of oxidation, hindering their ability to effectively sacrifice themselves. The magnesium anode, on the other hand, corrodes more evenly and predictably, providing consistent protection.
Breaking Down the Features of Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode
Specifications
The Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode is designed specifically for Alpha I Gen II and Vaser drives. It is interchangeable with Mercruiser Stern Drive 806105A1, 97-806105, 97-806105Q1, and 97-806105T1. The anode is made from magnesium, which is more reactive than aluminum and provides superior protection in freshwater and moderately brackish environments.
The magnesium construction is crucial for preventing galvanic corrosion, where dissimilar metals in contact with an electrolyte (seawater or brackish water) create an electrical current that corrodes the less noble metal. The anode acts as the sacrificial metal, corroding instead of the more expensive and critical components of the stern drive. Its dimensions are designed for a perfect fit, ensuring maximum contact and optimal protection.
Performance & Functionality
The Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode performs its primary function—protecting the stern drive from corrosion—exceptionally well. It effectively diverts corrosive activity away from the drive’s metal components, extending its lifespan and reducing the risk of costly repairs. The anode’s consistent and predictable corrosion rate provides peace of mind, knowing that the stern drive is continuously protected.
One minor weakness is the included hardware, which could be of higher quality stainless steel. This small detail doesn’t significantly detract from the anode’s overall performance but should be noted. Otherwise, the Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode meets and exceeds expectations, providing reliable and effective corrosion protection.
Design & Ergonomics
The Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode boasts a simple yet effective design. The material used, magnesium, is relatively lightweight, yet dense enough to provide long-lasting protection. Its design is not complicated, therefore making this product easy to install with simple tools.
The simple design means there isn’t a learning curve. Any boater who has changed a spark plug can change this anode.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care and maintenance, the Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode is designed to last for a boating season, depending on the water conditions and usage. Regular inspection and occasional cleaning are essential for maximizing its lifespan.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a soft brush and freshwater to remove any accumulated debris or oxidation. Replacement is necessary when the anode has corroded to approximately 50% of its original size.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode doesn’t offer many customization options. As a sacrificial anode, its function is very specific, and there are no modifications to consider.
It is compatible with Mercruiser Stern Drive 806105A1, 97-806105, 97-806105Q1, and 97-806105T1, which offers flexibility for boaters with different drive systems. Some boaters may choose to use aftermarket mounting hardware for added security and longevity.
Pros and Cons of Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode
Pros
- Superior Corrosion Protection: Magnesium provides excellent sacrificial protection in freshwater and moderately brackish environments.
- Direct Replacement: Interchangeable with Mercruiser Stern Drive models.
- Easy Installation: Simple and straightforward installation process using basic tools.
- Cost-Effective: Relatively inexpensive compared to the cost of repairing corrosion damage.
- Reputable Brand: Sierra International is a trusted name in marine parts.
Cons
- Hardware Quality: The included screws could be of higher quality stainless steel.
- Sacrificial Nature: Requires periodic inspection and replacement.
Who Should Buy Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode?
- Perfect for: Boat owners with Alpha I Gen II or Vaser drives operating in freshwater or moderately brackish environments. Anyone looking to protect their stern drive from galvanic corrosion and extend its lifespan.
- Who should skip this product? Boat owners operating exclusively in saltwater environments (aluminum or zinc anodes are typically more suitable in those conditions).
- Must-have accessories or modifications? Consider replacing the included mounting hardware with higher-quality stainless steel screws for added durability.
Conclusion on Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode
The Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode is a highly effective and affordable solution for protecting your boat’s stern drive from corrosion. Its magnesium construction provides superior sacrificial protection in freshwater and moderately brackish environments, extending the lifespan of your drive and preventing costly repairs. While the included hardware could be improved, the anode itself performs its job exceptionally well.
The price is definitely justified given the alternative of constant corrosive damage to vital systems. The minimal cost of this anode compared to the major expense of replacing corroded parts makes this a no brainer in proper boat maintenance.
I would personally recommend the Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode to any boater who wants to safeguard their investment and enjoy worry-free time on the water. Don’t wait until you see corrosion damage – invest in a Sierra International 186079 Magnesium Anode and protect your stern drive today!