Prop Paint

[pvisich]

Looking for suggestions on what I should put on my prop after soaking it in vinegar and then sanding it down to a very clean bronze surface on my CD 30 MK2. Have a brother that swears by Rust-oleum cold galvanized compound (93% pure zinc added) that you can buy at Home Depot. Interestingly, when I asked someone at local boat yard about using this product, he was quick to say this would be an issue with electrolysis, but I see other boat prop paints that have zinc in it. Thoughts?

[bottomscraper]

I have been using Rustoleum and other brands of cold galvanizing spray paint for years. I have also tried Pettit "PROP COAT BARNACLE BARRIER", which I believe is functionally and visually identical to the other brands of cold galvanizing zinc paint. The zinc paint isn't a perfect solution but it works rather well if you use your engine on a regular basis. I typically still get a couple of barnacles but they are easy to remove. I don't think there is any problem with electrolysis. Zinc is one of the least nobal metals, that is why we use it for sacrificial anodes.

[Jim Evans]

Also concur with using zinc paint on the prop. I've been using Barnacle Barrier for 15 years, and it helps on the Chesapeake - but it certainly doesn't prevent all growth. I found this article in Practical Sailor on using diaper cream (rich in zinc oxide) on the prop before launching, and I tried it last spring - figuring there was no downside, and it's cheap. I've detected no loss in motoring speed since launching 6 months ago - normally I would by now. I plan to use it again before my next launching. Here's the article: https://www.practical-sailor.com/blog/A ... 907-1.html

[pvisich]

Thanks for the responses. Interesting choices!

[jbenagh]

I've been using three rustoleum and it works pretty well in Salem/ Beverly MA. A couple barnacles that fall off easily.
And maybe a few stubs that need EZ off. This year we didn't motor a's much and I suspect there'll be more buildup.
It works the same as the Petit stuff which isn't surprising since it's the same compound.

Jeff

[pvisich]

Appreciate everyone's input. Think I am going to try the Rustoleum this coming year with 93% zinc!