PINKING INDICATES CORROSION

Marine Components International (MCI) is the UK and European distributor for the Groco range of bronze valves manufactured in the USA.

MCI advises that all ball valves should be flushed with fresh water to remove any salt residue, opened and closed to ensure they function properly and then greased.

“Laying your boat up means you can check the valves, known as seacocks, to ensure they are in proper working order and look for any signs of corrosion,” says MD Andy Scott.

“If the product is brass and there is any ‘pinking’ this indicates corrosion and you should replace it before the next boating season. Check that the ball, particularly if made of chromed brass, does not have any damage to the chrome plating. If it does, it is likely to corrode quickly and you should replace the ball valve."

MCI recommends using a bronze valve rather than brass as bronze is more durable in seawater conditions. Although brass costs more the company says it is a sound long-term investment to prevent expensive and disruptive break-downs and repairs.

“Better quality ball valves should have a zerk fitting around the ball housing to allow lubrication. Finally if the ball valve is fitted with a drain plug, boat owners should remove it and keep it in a safe place with a note to replace it before relaunching the boat.

“This will ensure that water cannot freeze in the valve during the winter which may cause the drain plug to split,” concludes Andy.