Most small passenger vessels have an auxiliary steering arrangement. According to the regulations, which is acceptable as a substitute for the auxiliary steering system?
• 46 CFR Subchapter T requirements for small passenger vessels • Definition and purpose of an auxiliary steering system • Difference between steering gear components vs. spares and loose gear
• Think about what the regulations intend an auxiliary steering system to do if the main steering fails. Which option actually lets you control the rudder and keep the vessel on course? • Consider which item would be immediately usable in an emergency without major installation or rigging work. • Ask yourself: Does the regulation allow a simple spare part to count as a complete auxiliary system?
• Verify in 46 CFR 182 (steering systems and equipment) what is listed as acceptable auxiliary steering arrangements for small passenger vessels. • Check whether a spare rudder by itself provides a way to steer if the main gear fails. • Check whether a hand tiller or a purchase tackle is explicitly mentioned as an approved alternative or as part of an emergency steering method.
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