VH6CL

Pre-operations checks
Description of Task:    Demonstrate the ability to conduct pre-operation checks on rescue vessel engines as part of a systematic preventative maintenance program.

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Assessment Method:    Practical Demonstration

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Notes: Establish a routine to ensure nothing is missed. Locate the engine oil dipstick and move around engine counter-clockwise with checks finishing with the engine oil dipstick.

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Battery Set-up:
•    Even-Numbered Days – Port on “2” and Starboard on “1”. House battery “ON”
•    Odd-Numbered Days – Port on “1” and Starboard on “2”. House battery “ON”
            Memory Cheat!
            Port engine is the reference, odd days, battery on “1”, even days battery on “2”.                Starboard is then t  he opposite to Port.

Fluid levels:
•    Coolant: at indicated level inside overflow tank.
•    Gear oil (stern-drives): at indicated level on reservoir
•    Trim pump: at indicated level on reservoir

Primary Fuel Filter/Water Separator: (in forward locker AVAIL IV, engine compartment ASSURE)
•    Look for presence of algal growth or water.
•    Report presence of either.
Engine oil:
•    Level (cold engine) should be within 1-2 mm off full mark.
•    Report to skipper if oil levels low, understand topping up procedure.
•    Note presence of contaminants (e.g. brown colour to oil, large particles).
Belt Tension:
•    Tension of belts must be tight.
•    Presence of excessive black dust around engine bay indicates loose or worn belt.

TASK: PRE-OPERATION CHECKS
ELEMENTS    PERFORMANCE CRITERIA (practical demonstration)
1. Preparation    Ensure Emergency Stop buttons at helm are pressed. Place the “DO NOT START” tag over the Start switches.

Open the engine hatch.
2. Fluid Levels    Sight correct fluid level for coolant. Sight correct fluid level for hydraulics. Notify Skipper if fluids are required.
3. Leaks and or Corrosion    Inspect engine for leaks. White build-up indicates a water leak. Black might indicate oil or exhaust leak.
 
TASK: PRE-OPERATION CHECKS
ELEMENTS    PERFORMANCE CRITERIA (practical demonstration)
4. Filters    Observe fuel bowl for water and algal growth.

Check water filter strainer for foreign material. REMOVE UNDER SKIPPERS INSTRUCTIONS ONLY

Replace filters correctly and ensure ball valve is open.
5. Bilge Pump    Activate bilge pumps to check if functional.

Check high water bilge alarm system is functional.
6. Overall Appearance    
Check for loose connections or parts.
7. Battery Set-up    Ensure starboard and port batteries set to correct battery datum.

Do not rotate Cole-Hersey switch through the off position while
8. Preventative Maintenance    Apply Inox to all areas of engine prone to rust, especially moving parts and fuel connections. Avoid belts and hoses.
9. Communication of Deficiencies    Check with Skipper that all is okay to start engine. With hatches up, listen for any unusual noises, vibrations or loose parts.

Report any deficiencies noted and add to the “Maintenance” tab on the shared Roster page.