SAMS - Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors Certified Propulsion and Machinery Systems Questions and Answers

Question 1

A marine surveyor is inspecting a diesel engine that is producing excessive black smoke. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

Accepted Answer

An improper air-to-fuel ratio

Answer

Water in the fuel

Answer

Coolant leaking into the combustion chamber

Answer

The engine is not reaching operating temperature

Question 2

During a pre-purchase survey of a vessel with an inboard engine, you observe a traditional stuffing box dripping water at a rate of 15-20 drops per minute while the shaft is stationary. What is the appropriate recommendation to the client?

Accepted Answer

The packing gland nut should be tightened until the dripping stops completely with the shaft static.

Answer

This is a normal and acceptable condition.

Answer

The packing gland nut should be loosened slightly.

Answer

The vessel requires an immediate haul-out to replace the cutless bearing.

Question 3

Which of the following is a primary advantage of an Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) system over a sacrificial anode system?

Accepted Answer

Allows for precise control and adjustment of the protection level.

Answer

Lower initial installation cost.

Answer

Requires no external power source to operate.

Answer

It is a completely passive and maintenance-free system.

Question 4

A surveyor inspecting a vessel's steering gear system in accordance with SOLAS and USCG regulations should verify which of the following?

Accepted Answer

The presence of audible and visual alarms for power failure and hydraulic fluid low-level.

Answer

The hydraulic fluid was changed within the last 12 months.

Answer

The system is capable of moving the rudder from 35 degrees on one side to 35 degrees on the other in less than 15 seconds.

Answer

The tiller arm is painted with high-visibility yellow paint.

Question 5

During a sea trial on a twin-engine vessel, you note significant vibration from the port shaft at cruising RPM, which was not present at lower speeds. The propeller was reported to be recently balanced. Which of the following is the most probable cause that requires further investigation?

Accepted Answer

Misalignment between the engine and propeller shaft.

Answer

A fouled hull surface increasing drag.

Answer

Incorrect fuel grade being used for the engine.

Answer

A malfunctioning bilge pump in the engine room.

Question 6

When inspecting a wet exhaust system on a recreational vessel, which of the following is a critical safety-related finding that must be reported?

Accepted Answer

A single hose clamp securing the exhaust hose to the manifold riser.

Answer

The use of non-metallic mufflers.

Answer

Presence of a high-rise exhaust elbow.

Answer

Exhaust hose routing that includes a gradual bend.