Is this normal, how to clean it and best way to prevent it ?

[acubria]

After winterizing my Yanmar 1GM I noticed that my Groco seawater strainer looked a bit too dirty/green. The cover of the water pump looked greenish, whiteish and fuzzy. If I dont remember seeing this before; at least to this extend.

Is this normal?
What is the best/easiest way to clean it ? Vinegar ?
I have zincs in the prop shaft and engine block. Any way to prevent this from happening again?
thanks !

 

[Christian Williams]

Normal. The green oxidation protects the bronze.

Sure, a soak in vinegar and a scrub with a stainless wire brush.