10.5.3 Outboard engines

10.5.2 Inboard engine operation and maintenance

The following maintenance of a vessel’s rigging should be undertaken:

On craft fitted with inboard engines, prior to proceeding to sea the following procedures should be undertaken:

▪A competent person should

inspect all elements of the rigging visually. This should be done annually. As this may involve undertaking a masthead inspection working at height, only individuals experienced in working aloft and using a suitable Bosun’s Chair or equivalent should undertake this work.

▪Check oil and coolant levels.

▪Inspect all bilges for leaks.

▪Oily or engine space bilges should

not be pumped overboard under any circumstances.

▪Ensure all sea valves are open.

▪Shrouds should be examined for

▪Ensure adequate fuel is carried on

signs of damaged, distorted or kinked wire strands.

board.

▪While the engine is running,

▪Stay wire end terminals should

inspect for any fuel leaks.

be visually inspected – rolled or swaged ends are prone to splitting. Norseman or Staylock terminals can be opened and inspected internally if required. Ensure turnbuckles are not distorted or damaged.

▪Prior to leaving the dock, ensure

an adequate cooling overboard discharge is present.

▪Check that the engine operates

ahead and astern prior to departure from the berth or mooring.

▪Be aware of the age of your

▪Battery electrolyte levels should

vessel’s shrouds. A regularly used craft should consider stay renewal every 7-10 years depending on usage. Keep a record of renewal dates. It is advisable to renew stays on a rolling basis, changing a section every year.

be checked on a regular basis throughout the season.

▪Propeller shaft systems, including

regular greasing of bearings and inspection of leakage rate at glands, should also be included in an owner’s maintenance routine.

▪Always renew with suitable

material, size and terminals. It is recommended to have this work done professionally.

10.5.3 Outboard engines

On craft fitted with outboard engines, the following procedures should be followed:

▪Be aware of the correct procedure

to tune rigging.