Rudder post bronze, aluminum steering Quad

[Chenega]

I'm re-packing the stuffing box on a bronze rudder post. (Required removal of steering gear for other reasons) The steering quadrant came off fine only a few stiff bolts with very little corrosion. The boat is a 1979 Leigh 30 - all original steering gear and the quadrant is aluminum - in perfect shape. Bronze and aluminum? I don't get it, no corrosion. On the bronze heel fitting for the rudder there is no zinc of any kind. Can someone explain why there is not a problem here? I don't want to add zinc protection and invite problems. (Prop and stainless shaft are properly protected)

[capngeo]

It is dry...... Galvanic action requires dissimilar metals in the presence of an electrolyte (sea water)

[DeepFrz]

It may have had an anti-seize compound applied to the rudder shaft and bolts.

[delmarrey]

Probably both above.

[Uncle Bob]

Originally Posted by Chenega

I'm re-packing the stuffing box on a bronze rudder post. (Required removal of steering gear for other reasons) The steering quadrant came off fine only a few stiff bolts with very little corrosion. The boat is a 1979 Leigh 30 - all original steering gear and the quadrant is aluminum - in perfect shape. Bronze and aluminum? I don't get it, no corrosion. On the bronze heel fitting for the rudder there is no zinc of any kind. Can someone explain why there is not a problem here? I don't want to add zinc protection and invite problems. (Prop and stainless shaft are properly protected)

On reassembly remember neversieze is your friend.