65.Lifeboat engine Regulation

(a)       Lifeboat shall be powered by a compression ignition engine. No life boat engine can be used if the fuel used in it has a flash point of 43 degree C or less. The lifeboat engine can either be two stroke or four-stroke type, and can be started either by hand or by power. Power starting can be by using accumulator batteries or hydraulic.

(b)       In power starting, normally two independent rechargeable energy sources are provided.  However, any starting method should be capable of starting engines at 15 degrees C of ambient temperature within two minutes of commencing of starting procedure.

(c)        The engine power is transmitted to propeller through gearbox.  The gearbox is capable of disengaging the engine as well as engaging in either   ahead or astern direction.

(d)       The engine on starting should be allowed to run at slow speed, with propeller shaft disengaged.  When the engine warms up, engine revolutions are increased gradually.  The exhaust pipe outlet is located well clear of waterline. The engine, its accessories and gearbox is enclosed in fire retardant casing.

(e)       Essential tools such as shifter, screw driver, spanner, cranking levers etc. are kept in lifeboat at all times and should never be removed from lifeboat.

(f)        Engine should be capable of operating for not less than 5 minutes after starting from cold, with lifeboat out of water.

(g)       A fully loaded lifeboat in calm water has an engine speed of 6 knots and enough fuel for 24 hours. When towing the biggest liferaft it makes good a speed of at least 2 knots. Before lowering lifeboat, battery-charging connection should be disconnected, if provided.

(h)       Lifeboat engine operation will not interfere with the operation of radio life-saving appliances.