white build up on outdrive
 

Can anyone tell me what I can do to remove the white build-up residue on my stern drive? It looks like corrosion, I think maybe from the exhaust. What can I do to get rid of this? This is my first I/O so I have not encountered this before. Thanks!
Propnut

Re: white build up on outdrive
 

Without seeing an actual picture, my guess is they're hard water stains and "calcium" type build-up.

I've used CLR, Lime Away, and even Muriatic Acid (dilluted and rinsed right away) all with fairly good luck. Use a stiff brush, but not enough to scratch the finish. Good luck!

Re: white build up on outdrive
 

I was not sure if it was just from hard water residue or something else, like from the exhaust. Like I said, its my first I/O. I never got build up like this on any of my other boats that had outboards.
Propnut

Re: white build up on outdrive
 

Mine had had the same problem and it was scale buildup. I added a drive shower and it solved the problem. It keeps the drive cooler so I expect it will keep the bearings and oil in better shape.

Re: white build up on outdrive
 

OK, what the heck is a drive shower? I spent several hours detailing the sterndrive. I used CLR, a toothbrush, a nylon brush, rags and a lot of elbow grease. What you are describing sounds good, but I don't know what it is.
Thanks! Propnut

Re: white build up on outdrive
 

to my understanding a drive shower is a small metal pipe that runs off flowing water as you drive, it forces the water up over the top of the outdrive to keep it cool.

Here's One

where exactly is your white buildup? on the top of the outdrive, or on the bottom half?

Re: white build up on outdrive
 

The one I put on is an earlier version of this one and I have not had any buildup since.

http://www.driveshowers.com/

They have good info at this site.

Re: white build up on outdrive
 

Sorry ShabahZ250 I didn't see your link:wink_thumbup:

Re: white build up on outdrive
 

That white build is the mineral deposits left behind from water evaporating off the upper portion of the drive. The drive shower helps keep the upper portion of the drive cooler and subsequently you don't get the deposits.

Like Indy said, use clr or a limeaway type product to get it clean.

Re: white build up on outdrive
 

Thanks for the info guys! I will check out getting a drive shower. The boat is still "new" to me so I am just getting things figured out. Have a good weekend!