Spring Commissioning Tip

Hose Attachment to the Intermediate Bearing Support

During your Spring commissioning be sure to check the integrity of the metal hose fitting on the intermediate support bearing.  This fitting supplies raw engine water to the packing gland. Since it's below the waterline, a broken fitting will allow seawater to enter the tug.  The following sage advice comes from a recent LNVT Forum post from Wesley Eldred, ex-Little Bitt 37VT21, "I would encourage all owners to check this fitting as a failure when under way could be most inconvenient." 

Lady Katie's Failed Fitting

In 2013 Lady Katie 37VT28's fitting failed at the dock.  She slowly filled with water and was saved from completely sinking by an observant passerby. 

 

Corrosion on the Hose Fitting

Just last month Mike McCoy, Tug E. Bear 37VT62, found his fitting was badly corroded. 

Tug E Bear's New Bronze Fitting

He replaced it with a new bronze fitting and reported that the repair was straight forward and easy.  

Doing a simple fitting inspection during the Spring launch could prevent the trials and tribulations of an underway emergency.