What is the likely cause of excessive pitting and corrosion in your Red Gear?

Excessive pitting and corrosion in gear systems, such as the Red Gear, is often caused by water intrusion. Water can lead to an electrochemical reaction that accelerates both corrosion and pitting on metal surfaces. This is particularly detrimental in gear systems because it reduces the effectiveness of the lubrication and introduces additional wear mechanisms, such as rust.

When water enters the gear housing, it can displace the lubricating oil, leading to a situation where metal surfaces are not adequately protected. The lubrication film is essential for preventing direct metal-to-metal contact under load, and without it, surfaces are prone to fatigue and pitting due to both mechanical stress and corrosive action. Therefore, regular checks for seals and moisture ingress are crucial in maintaining the integrity of gearboxes and preventing these forms of damage.

While other factors such as fuel contamination, overheating, and low lubrication can cause issues within gear systems, they do not specifically lead to pitting and corrosion as water intrusion does. They may contribute to the overall failure of the system, but the unique role of water in facilitating corrosion makes it the primary concern in this context.