Ship Driver Vessel Systems and Maintenance

Question 1

What does a bilge pump do on a vessel?

Accepted Answer

Removes water that has collected in the lowest part of the hull

Answer

A bilge pump removes accumulated water from the bilge (lowest part of the hull) to prevent flooding and maintain vessel buoyancy.

Question 2

How often should engine oil be checked on an inboard vessel?

Accepted Answer

Before each outing

Answer

Engine oil should be checked before each outing to ensure proper lubrication levels, as low oil can cause catastrophic engine damage far from shore.

Question 3

What is the purpose of zincs (sacrificial anodes) on a vessel?

Accepted Answer

Protect metal hull and drive components from galvanic corrosion

Answer

Zinc anodes sacrifice themselves through galvanic corrosion to protect more expensive metals like bronze, stainless steel, and aluminum on the vessel.

Question 4

What should be done if a through-hull fitting fails and water rushes in?

Accepted Answer

Immediately insert a tapered wooden plug (seacock plug) into the opening

Answer

A tapered wooden seacock plug hammered into the failed through-hull fitting can stop or greatly reduce flooding while you seek help or effect permanent repairs.

Question 5

What indicates a failing impeller on a raw-water-cooled engine?

Accepted Answer

Engine overheating — loss of cooling water flow

Answer

A failed impeller (rubber pump vane) stops cooling water circulation, causing rapid engine overheating — immediate shutdown is required to prevent damage.

Ship Driver Practice Test

Ship Driver Practice Test

Ship Driver Vessel Systems and Maintenance