Share this article
Cox Marine is committed to pushing the boundaries of marine propulsion technology with its V8 diesel outboard. As part of that commitment, we have recently installed a purpose-built paint booth within our Shoreham-by-Sea production facility.
This new addition is far more than a cosmetic enhancement. It represents a major leap forward in our ability to protect the heart of our V8 diesel outboards – the powerhead – from the relentless assault of saltwater and the elements.
Enhancing corrosion protection for the powerhead
The powerhead of a marine outboard is subjected to some of the harshest conditions imaginable. Constant exposure to salt spray, immersion in brackish waters and the rapid changes in temperature on deck all conspire to weaken metal components over time.
Recognising this challenge, Cox Marine has invested in a state-of-the-art paint booth that creates a tightly controlled environment for the application of advanced marine-grade coatings. By regulating temperature and humidity to exacting levels, we are able to ensure optimal adhesion of these specialised coatings to every surface of the powerhead.
Optimised adhesion and uniform coverage
Coating adhesion is critical to long-term performance. If a coating fails to bond properly it can crack, peel or allow moisture to creep underneath.
Our new paint booth allows operators to apply multi-layer coatings that bond seamlessly to the complex geometry of the V8 powerhead. Each pass within the booth achieves uniform thickness and a finish that resists flaking. The proof lies in the strength of the bond between the metallic substrate and the protective layer, which has been selected specifically for its compatibility with the diverse alloys and finishes found within the powerhead assembly.
Superior salt spray and immersion resistance
The advanced coatings we apply in our new facility have undergone rigorous testing against salt spray and immersion challenges. These trials mimic years of marine service in accelerated timeframes. Engines treated in our controlled environment consistently outperform those coated by conventional methods, showing dramatically reduced signs of corrosion. The result is a powerhead that can withstand prolonged exposure to saline environments without compromising its mechanical integrity or performance characteristics.
Driving down lifecycle costs
For our customers, the benefits of enhanced corrosion protection extend far beyond the engine room. By greatly reducing the rate of component degradation, Cox Marine lowers the total cost of ownership over the life of the outboard. Maintenance intervals can be stretched out and parts that might once have required replacement after only a few seasons at sea can now remain in service for much longer. This translates into real savings in docking time, workshop labour and replacement part purchases.
Reinforcing our commitment to excellence
“This investment reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering the most durable and reliable diesel outboards,” explains Thomas Wheeler, Operations Value Stream Leader at Cox Marine. He emphasises that bringing the coating process in-house allows the company to maintain strict quality control at every stage. “By controlling the coating process ourselves, we can ensure that every powerhead meets our exacting standards. Our customers gain peace of mind knowing their engines are protected by the very best corrosion-resistant technology available.”
Powering sustainable innovation
While corrosion protection is the immediate focus of our new paint booth, this development sits alongside our broader mission to drive the marine industry towards more sustainable solutions. Cox Marine is already recognised as the manufacturer of the only purpose-built high-powered diesel outboard. With the V8 diesel outboard we have set a new benchmark for fuel efficiency and emissions reduction. Now, by reinforcing the engine’s durability, we help our customers maximise the sustainability gains of lower fuel consumption and extended engine life.
Looking ahead
As we continue to refine our manufacturing processes, the installation of the in-house paint booth marks just one milestone in a journey of continuous improvement. We remain steadfast in our goal to deliver propulsion solutions that combine power, reliability and sustainability. Customers who choose the V8 diesel outboard can now be even more confident that their engines will deliver years of exceptional performance, even in the toughest marine environments.
