Instruction manual

PROFICIENCY IN SURVIVAL CRAFT AND RESCUE BOATS OTHER THAN
FAST RESCUE BOATS
9 12
If a fuse does “blow”, it should be replaced with one that is recommended
for that purpose.
Some spare fuses should be carried on board in case this happens. If a
fuse repeatedly “blows”, it indicates a serious problem which should be looked at
by a qualified person to find the cause.
Batteries should be inspected regularly to make sure they are secured in
place to stop movement as a vessel rolls. They should also be kept topped up
with distilled water to just above the plates. Batteries must be kept dry and clean,
and the connections tight. The terminal posts should be coated in Vaseline to
prevent them from corroding.
Batteries contain hydrogen gas, which is highly explosive so must be kept
clear of sparks, heat, flames, lit cigarettes and so on. They also contain acid,
which burns the skin so must be handled carefully.
Propellers are easily damaged by hazards in the water, hitting the bottom
and corrosion. Even slight damage can cause a reduction in speed.Propellers on
outboard motors are fitted with a shear pin, which is designed to break, if the
propeller hits a solid object. The pin is easily replaced.
If a propeller blade is bent or badly chipped, it is best to fit a new propeller as it
will not work very well. Make sure you only fit a propeller, which is recommended
by the outboard manufacturer.
Every three months, the propeller should be pulled off and the propeller shaft
greased.
A zinc anode is fitted near the propeller to prevent corrosion and should be
replaced when almost worn away. The zinc anode should be pulled off and
scrubbed once every three months.
9.9 Periodic inspection and service
The following table is given as a guideline for periodic maintenance
procedures.
These inspections and services are recommended for outboard motors used
on an average of 20 hours per month. Depending on operating conditions, the
intervals between maintenance procedures may need to be changed.