Online Boating Equipment & Maintenance Flashcards
7 cards from real OBS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Online Boating Equipment & Maintenance flashcards as text
What is the correct procedure for winterizing a freshwater cooling system on a boat engine?
Answer: Flush with antifreeze rated for the expected low temperatures
Flushing the cooling system with marine non-toxic antifreeze rated for expected minimum temperatures is the correct method to prevent freeze damage to engine components.
What does the term 'freeboard' refer to on a vessel?
Answer: The distance from the waterline to the top of the hull
Freeboard is the vertical distance between the waterline and the top edge (gunwale) of the hull; adequate freeboard is essential for preventing swamping.
Which propeller condition requires immediate replacement before operating the boat?
Answer: A cracked or severely bent blade
A cracked or severely bent propeller blade creates dangerous imbalance, vibration, and risk of blade separation, and must be replaced before the boat is used.
What is the function of a raw-water strainer in a marine engine?
Answer: To remove debris from the water before it enters the engine's cooling system
A raw-water strainer catches grass, shells, debris, and other particles before they can clog or damage the impeller and internal cooling passages of the engine.
How frequently should the impeller in a raw-water pump be inspected or replaced?
Answer: Annually or per manufacturer's recommended interval, typically every 1-2 seasons
Rubber impellers degrade with use and age, so manufacturers recommend annual inspection and replacement every one to two seasons to prevent cooling system failure.
What is the purpose of a kill switch (engine cut-off switch) lanyard attached to the operator?
Answer: To automatically shut off the engine if the operator is thrown overboard or displaced
A kill switch lanyard attaches to the operator and the ignition; if the operator is ejected, the cord pulls free and kills the engine, preventing an unmanned boat from circling and striking people.
What does 'ground tackle' refer to in boating?
Answer: The anchor, anchor rode (line or chain), and related hardware used for anchoring
Ground tackle is the collective term for all anchoring equipment including the anchor, rope or chain rode, shackles, swivels, and any related hardware.