BoatHowTo · video

What this video covers

Volvo Penta saildrives feature electrical isolation between the drive leg and the engine, which eliminates the traditional path to the water for AC grounding circuits.1:04 When replacing an older, non-isolated drive with a modern Volvo Penta unit, the AC grounding system loses its connection to the water.1:38 ABYC and ISO standards require restoring this grounding path to ensure safety.1:46 Owners should not bridge the engine to the saildrive leg, as this bypasses the isolation and triggers severe galvanic corrosion.2:51 Instead, connect the AC grounding system to an existing metal through-hull or a dedicated grounding plate.2:05 Additionally, install an Equipment Leakage Circuit Interrupter (ELCI) or Residual Current Device (RCD) on the AC side to protect against ground faults.2:23 Maintaining the saildrive's electrical isolation preserves the integrity of the unit while providing a safe, compliant path for AC grounding.3:08

More from BoatHowTo

How to keep you TANK CLEAN in the days of BIODIESEL.. | Ask The Expert with NIGEL CALDERAug 2026PARALLELING Conductors for AMPACITY - is that SAFE?? | Ask The Expert with NIGEL CALDERAug 2026ENGINE OIL turns BLACK right after Oil Change?? | Ask The Expert with NIGEL CALDERAug 2026Same LAYUP RECOMMENDATIONS for FAME and HVO bio diesel? | Ask The Expert with NIGEL CALDERAug 2026

From BoatHowTo — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.