Electrical Bonding System for M38

[truitt]

We have a 1982 Morgan 383 (Ithaki). Does anyone know if this
model came with an electrical bonding system from the factory?
Our boat has a series of green wires tied (poorly) to the
engine, thru-hulls, mast step, etc. However, these wires are
not attached to any external zinc anode. I believe an anode is
needed for the bonding system to work. I think our current
system is worse than nothing because it closes the circuit
between the metal components of the boat and the sea water.
Obviously, my knowledge of things electrical is pretty weak.
Can anyone advise me as to how a good bonding system should be
set up? Is an external anode necessary? Any advice would be
appeciated. Thanks.

 

[aistqm]

Colin. If your engine is included in the bonding system and your engine is bonded to your prop, then your prop zinc is your bonding zinc. It will not give much protection to your head and galley through hulls but may give some protection to your engine cooling water through hull. If there is a significant potential difference between the metals, your zinc will waste very quickly. Your system should have a dedicated zinc for the bonding system if you want the metal parts protected from corrosion and it should be sized to last. You should speak to a marine surveyor who is trained in corrosion protection about your system. I would not rely on free advise which is given without an inspection of your vessel. In the meantime, I would bond a zinc to your system via a long wire and hang it over the side when you are in your slip or on a mooring. This will give some added protection. Hope this helps.

 

[bbeach]

My boat 382#046 is completely unbonded. I am the 3rd owner. The last owner is an extremely knowledgeable sailor. I figured that if he never did it and the boat's fine for this many years - should I go through the expense and extensive hassle to bond it all together.
If any of you know more please email me. I feel this setup has worked for 20 yrs - so why fix what ain't broke!
Comments?