FAQ: Heat Exchanger Zinc 

Location

The heat exchanger zinc is accessed by means of a screwed-in mount at the bottom of the heat exchanger, in the back of the engine. You'll need to access this through the back cabin; it's quite a contortion, though, so get somebody to help you if you have back problems (Ron Hill).

What size zinc do I need?

Hansen Marine (800-343-0480), a Universal "stocking dealer" can tell you which zinc you need. They need to know the diameter of the heat exchanger. Some older engines have 2'' exchangers the new ones are 3"" in diameter (Alby Anderson, Full Moon 1380)

You'll need to cut it

There are two sizes (diameter) of  heat exchanger zincs.  You can't mix them up because the larger won't fit.  But you can screw up the tubes inside the heat exchanger if the zinc is too long.  Take a screwdriver, a #2 pencil, or something that will go up through the hole, and measure how far up it went.  Then hack saw the zinc off to match.  In high saline conditions or year around use, I'd check the heat exchanger zinc at least twice a year.  Zincs are cheap.  Heat exchangers and engines are expensive (Ron Hill).

Important: The opinions expressed here are those of the individual contributors to this page, and not those of the Catalina 34 National Association or Catalina Yachts, Inc. Additionally, this material has not been reviewed by Catalina Yachts, Inc. for technical accuracy. This page's maintainer cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information or the desirability of suggested modifications or upgrades. Please obtain assistance from a competent marine mechanic or boatyard prior to making any significant modifications to your vessel.