Saltwater use

[Gonefishing]

Getting ready to pick up new pontoon and will be using it in saltwater. Don't have a saltwater package on it not available. Anyone have one they are in saltwater and what do you do to protect the toons.
Thanks
Bob

[Ron Burgundy]

I use mine exclusively in salt water. If you are going to leave it in the water you need antifouling paint below the waterline, and sharkhide above the waterline. Otherwise, just sharkhide over the entire pontoons will be enough. Make sure to flush the engine after everyuse.

[rbiederwolf]

As said above
1. The aluminum Toons need to be protected if left in the water, thus antifouling paint
2. Flush engine after every use- hugely important
3. Add zincs where you can. The motor probably has them. I would add one to the pontoons as well.
4. If using a trailer make sure you have bearing buddies. Add a brake flush kit to your trailer and rinse after every use
5. Also good idea to take off the engine cover a completely spray engine with Boeshield T9 corrosion protector. I guarantee that salt will find its way under the engine cover
6. Spray any surface on boat or trailer that you think may corrode with Boeshield T9. I have sprayed everything from zippers, electrical connections etc
7. Rinse, rinse and rinse again. Fresh water is your best friend. I also use a product called "Salt Away". West marine carries it.

[Bamaman]

Saltwater boating is a bitch.

Am I right in saying that you have to use a specific style of antifouling paint that works on aluminum? The regular antifouling paint has a base that corrodes aluminum.

[Ron Burgundy]

Yep, make sure you use antifouling specific for aluminium or kiss your 'toons goodbye. Trilux 33 is a good choice.

I wouldn't trade saltwater for anyting.