MTC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield MTC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the maximum allowable length for a marine DC wiring run without a dedicated overcurrent protection device at the power source? → 7 inches
2. Which cybersecurity practice is most important when a marine vessel's computer systems connect to shoreside networks for software updates? → Isolating update traffic on a separate VLAN from operational systems
3. A marine technician notices soft spots in a fiberglass deck. What is the MOST likely cause? → Water-saturated core material (balsa or foam)
4. In MTC practice, what is a needs assessment? → A systematic process to identify gaps between current conditions and desired outcomes
5. Under NFPA 303, what is the required minimum ventilation rate for an enclosed gasoline engine compartment to prevent accumulation of explosive vapors? → One cubic foot per minute per cubic foot of net compartment volume
6. A Loran-C receiver is no longer useful for navigation because: → The Loran-C transmission network was shut down in 2010
7. Which communication protocol is most commonly used for data exchange between marine electronic instruments such as GPS, depth sounders, and autopilots? → NMEA 0183
8. During a winter layup PM procedure, what is the purpose of fogging oil sprayed into a gasoline marine engine's intake and spark plug holes? → To coat internal cylinder surfaces and prevent rust during storage
9. A boat experiences constant pulling to one side at cruise speed with no steering input. What is the MOST likely cause? → Propeller torque effect or a bent/damaged propeller blade
10. When a marine technician replaces an engine that does not comply with current EPA emission standards, what must be demonstrated? → Replacement engine meets applicable Tier standards
11. A stern-drive unit vibrates heavily at speeds above 3,000 RPM but is smooth at idle. The most likely cause is: → A damaged or out-of-balance propeller
12. Under 46 CFR, what bilge pump capacity is required for uninspected passenger vessels under 65 feet? → Sufficient to control bilge water accumulation under normal conditions
13. When performing a cylinder leak-down test on a marine engine, what does a reading of 25% leakage indicate? → Excessive leakage requiring investigation
14. What is the primary purpose of a sacrificial anode on a marine vessel? → To prevent galvanic corrosion on metal components
15. What is the function of the thermostat in a freshwater-cooled marine engine? → Maintain consistent engine operating temperature by controlling coolant circulation
16. Which symptom most strongly indicates a cracked engine block in a marine inboard? → Coolant level that drops without visible external leaks
17. What is the function of an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) connected to a vessel's navigation computer? → To provide temporary battery power during power interruptions
18. Which material is MOST commonly used for marine raw-water pump impellers due to its flexibility and resistance to seawater? → Neoprene (polychloroprene)
19. A marine technician observes that engine oil pressure drops significantly at operating temperature but is normal when cold. The MOST likely cause is: → Worn main and rod bearings
20. What is the significance of an 'end-of-life' (EOL) designation for software running on a vessel's navigation computer? → The manufacturer will no longer provide security patches or updates
21. A vessel's oil record book must be kept available for inspection for how long after the last entry? → Three years
22. In MTC practice, what is a needs assessment? → A systematic process to identify gaps between current conditions and desired outcomes
23. What type of caulking compound is best suited for sealing teak deck seams on a marine vessel? → Polysulfide sealant
24. What does professional liability insurance protect a MTC practitioner against? → Financial loss from claims of negligence, errors, or omissions in professional services
25. In MTC practice, what is the purpose of regulatory compliance? → To ensure adherence to laws, regulations, and standards that govern professional practice
26. What is the function of the shift interlock on a marine transmission? → Prevents shifting above a preset RPM to protect the gearbox
27. During a PM inspection of a marine vessel's through-hull fittings, what condition should prompt immediate haul-out and repair? → Dezincification (pinkish, porous appearance) or visible cracking of the fitting
28. A four-stroke outboard engine cranks but will not fire. Spark is confirmed at all cylinders. What is the MOST logical next diagnostic step? → Verify fuel pressure and injector pulse signal
29. Under 33 CFR Part 155, vessels over what length must carry an oil spill response plan? → Vessels carrying bulk oil in 250+ barrel capacity
30. When a marine technician must enter a double-bottom fuel tank to perform repairs, which document must be issued before entry is permitted? → Confined Space Entry Permit / Gas-Free Certificate