Remove and Prevent Engine Rust - 1993 Ski Nautique

[peebles]

I recently noticed what looks like rust on several of my engine components. I've had the boat for only two years and know very little about maintenance other than oil changes, impeller changes and winterization. I don't think it has been run in salt water, but has probably been exposed to moisture over and over in its life without protection. Engine runs great but Please recommend how to (1) clean/remove the existing rust and (2) prevent future rust issues. See several pics attached. Thanks for the help!

[shag]

As far as removal, I'll let others chime in. I don't think it looks like corrosion from salt but not 100%. When I used to live in Sarasota Fla and used nautiques specifically in salt, I bought WD40 by the case and would soak the entire engine and drive train and it did a very good job of preventing corrosion. Easy enough to spray off with a little purple cleaner and easy/cheap to apply.. Just my .02

[peebles]

Thanks for the help Shag!

[Infinity]

I use fluid film to lightly coat the engine during winter months (don't do this if engine is not cold and dont get it on belt). Probably good to also avoid things like electrical wires.... some people also use a couple large pails of Damp Rid to absorb moisture during layup season.
I trailer and have enclosed garage, so when I get back from lake, I remove the seats and put a couple fans in boat, one I put in engine compartment to dry everything out. That is probably the most important aspect to preventing corrosion.

As far as removing existing corrosion, I suspect you would be in for a lot of work since to do it right the engine would need to be out to properly prep, prime and then paint with a quality paint that can also withstand high temps (especially on those exhaust risers. Others will probably have better info on this aspect, I don't have a lot of experience with that part.
You can slow down more corrosion tho by keeping the engine/bilge dry and coating those areas tho especially at risers, the heat will burn it off and may smoke a bit.

[Neptune442]

Unless you're looking for a show piece, to me that doesn't look too bad for a marine engine that's pushing 30 years old