You are on a ship that has broken down and are preparing to be taken in tow. You will use your anchor cable as part of the towline. Which statement is TRUE?
• Using anchor cable as a towline and how it leads from the bow • Where strain should be taken on a tow (strong points vs. windlass/anchoring gear) • How to reduce chafe and sharp angles when leading a towline or chain
• Think about what happens to the tow if the connection point is too far ahead of your bow versus well astern of the tug. How would that affect control and risk of collision? • Consider whether the anchor windlass, riding pawl, and chain stopper are designed for continuous towing strain or mainly for holding at anchor. • Visualize how anchor chain or a towline passes through a hawsepipe or chock—where would a sharp bend or nip cause damage or high stress?
• Which fitting(s) on board are designed for towing strain versus just holding an anchor? • Does the option you choose minimize sharp bends and chafe in the cable or towline at the bow? • Does the position of the tow connection provide a safe distance and good control between tug and tow?
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