🔍 Key Concepts

• Flanking rudders on Western Rivers towboats and where they are located relative to the propellers • How a towboat controls its tow when moving astern (backing) in a river current • Difference between devices that stop a vessel and devices that steer or assist maneuvering

💭 Think About

• Think about when a towboat on the Western Rivers most needs extra steering help: is it when going ahead in open water or when backing and working in current? • Ask yourself what type of equipment is normally used to reduce stopping distance, and is that the same as rudders or something else? • Consider the physical location of flanking rudders on a towboat: would that position be better for protecting other rudders, or for controlling water flow when backing?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify the primary purpose of flanking rudders: is it protection, stopping, or steering control in special situations? • Confirm whether flanking rudders are permanent parts of the towboat hull or portable gear attached to the tow or drag strings • Check how flanking rudders affect handling while going astern in current, especially on the Western Rivers