Steering Gear

Switch alarm system for steering gear to inhibit ship's alarm.

Ensure Port & Stbd. Steering gear compartments are secure for sea. Port & Stbd.

Check oil level in all four service tanks

Take note and investigate any oil leakage from previous operations. Repair if time permits, if not log in defect log for repair during quiet hours.

Switch servo control from "remote" to "local".

Start one pump at a time observing pump pressures, look for any oil leaks and check for noise or abnormalities.

Test the jog steering control (hard over to hard over) and compare Rudder angle indicator against the quadrant on the rotary vane unit.

Port Stbd.

Test the servo control push buttons to ensure correct operation. Port Stbd.

Contact the wheelhouse, have wheelhouse test and time all methods of steering (wheel, port lever, stbd. lever, and non-follow up steering, hard overs). Ensure that unit responds to all commands. Note any discrepancies between wheelhouse rudder angle indicator and the quadrant on the vane units. Small discrepancies should be noted for attention during the quiet periods. Check for gyro accuracy.

During summer months ensure vent pipes are open and one ventilation fan is running.

Ensure watertight door to steering flats is closed.

Switch alarm system for steering gear to alarm position (control room alarm).