Trouble Shooting
Engine wont start. What could be the cause? List three
Fuel tank empty;
Fuel tank vent closed;
Fuel line improperly connected or damaged; check both ends;
Fuel system not primed;
Engine flooded, look for fuel overflow;
Clogged fuel filter or line;
Spark plug wires reversed;
Loose battery connections;
Cracked or fouled spark plug;
Fuel pump not primed.
What are signs that a towed vessel may be taking on water?
A sudden change in attitude, excessive drag, or listing could indicate water ingress.
What does 5x5 mean when referring to a radio check?
Loudness and clarity out of 5
What is a key maintenance task after each vessel use?
Rinse the vessel, including deck and collar, with fresh water to remove salt
What’s a primary consideration when approaching a person in the water?
Approach from downwind or down current to maintain control and reduce the risk of running over the person.
Problem: Overheating
Cooling intake fouled;
Too little oil;
Water pump impeller worn;
Defective water pump;
Towing too big a vessel or towing too fast.
How do you inspect your vessel's Towing equipment
Tow reel tightly attached to vessel (deck fitting);
Line is properly secured;
Reel is not loose in holders;
Inspect towlines on a regular basis to detect damage from cuts, chafing, flattening, fusing (caused by overheating or over-stretching), snags and hardening (heavy use will compact and harden a towline and reduce its breaking strength);
what channel should we be monitoring at all times?
16
How should a sponsons be protected from UV damage?
Treat with a UV protectant such as 303 Aerospace Protectant.
Whats the maximum a VHF hand held range?
5 nm or line of sight depending on topography
1. Short circuit / loose connections causing tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse;
2. Corroded wiring connections;
3. Overloaded circuit;
4. Dead battery.
Solutions:
1. Check for shorts/grounds.
2. Reset circuit breakers, replace as necessary;
3. Clean or replace wiring;
4. Secure all unnecessary circuits, reset circuit breakers, replace fuses as necessary;
Charge or replace battery.
What should be done if the towline starts to pull the towing vessel sideways?
Release the towline immediately using the quick-release system if available.
what channel does Coast Guard monitor besides 16
83A
Where should maintenance tasks and deficiencies be recorded?
In the vessel’s logbook for traceability and tracking.
What’s the maximum recommended range for a VHF radio over water?
About 20–25 nautical miles, depending on antenna height and conditions.
Problem: Engine runs with a thumping or knocking noise
Solution:
There is most likely internal damage and the engine will have to be overhauled.
What should be the first step before initiating a tow?
Evaluate the situation to determine if towing is the safest and most appropriate option, and prepare a tow plan with proper communication between vessels.
What are the three priority distress signals used in marine radio communications?
Mayday: Used for grave and imminent danger (e.g., sinking, fire, or man overboard).
Pan Pan: Signals an urgent situation that is not immediately life-threatening (e.g., engine failure).
Sécurité: Used to broadcast navigational or meteorological warnings to other vessels.
How should synthetic ropes be stored?
In a cool, dry, ventilated area out of sunlight, coiled loosely above deck level
What is a “PIW drill”?
A Person In Water drill—used to practice safe and effective recovery of someone overboard.
Problem: Poor boat performance
Wrong propeller;
Engine tilted too high;
Bent propeller – usually accompanied by a high level of vibration;
Boat is overloaded;
Heavy marine growth on boat bottom;
Cavitation.
How should a towline be secured to a subject vessel?
The towline should be secured to strong points such as tow bits, cleats (if strong), or from a trailering eye (also use a bridle to distribute the load evenly).
Who does Coast Guard Radio relay information to during a SAR event (hint: to help coordinate assets )?
JRCC
Who is responsible for ensuring the vessel is clean and ready after a training session or mission?
It is the duty of the crew—under the direction of the coxswain or crew leader—to clean, refuel, and restock the vessel after any mission or training. This includes rinsing the deck, storing equipment properly, checking fuel and fluids, and ensuring the vessel is fully operational and in standby mode for the next call-out. Accountability and pride in the vessel are shared responsibilities across the team.
What is girding (or girting)?
Girding occurs when a towline exerts lateral force on a vessel, causing it to capsize.
What are the three essential components that a gasoline motor requires?
fuel, air , spark
What is the purpose of using a towing bridle?
A towing bridle distributes the towing load evenly across two points on the towing vessel, increasing control and reducing strain on the towline and vessel structure. It also helps keep the towline centered behind the boat, reducing the risk of girding.
What does “Stand by” mean in radio comms?
“Stand by” means “Wait, I’ll get back to you shortly.” It indicates a pause, not the end of communication.
What should you inspect every month to ensure electrolsis doesnt occur?
Zinc Anodes
What does “Out” mean at the end of a transmission?
“Out” means “This is the end of my transmission and I do not expect a reply.” It should not be used with “Roger” or “Over.”