Totally Enclosed Lifeboat 120P Diesel Inboard-C

Common issues

• Engine starting failure due to battery/starting system neglect between drills
• On-load release hook mechanism stiffness, corrosion, or incorrect adjustment
• Falls (wire rope) wear, corrosion, or lubrication breakdown
• Hull GRP cracking or delamination, particularly at davit attachment points
• Deterioration of rubber seals/gaskets around hatches affecting watertight/self-righting integrity
• Fuel system contamination or degradation from infrequent engine use
• Painter/release line and quick-release mechanism wear

Inspection checklist

• Weekly visual inspection and monthly launching/engine run per SOLAS requirements
• Function test of on-load release gear per the manufacturer's operating instructions
• Inspection of falls, blocks, and davit for wear, corrosion, and correct reeving
• Engine start and run test, checking cooling water, exhaust, and fuel systems
• Check hull for cracks, damage, and secure fittings (fenders, grab lines, painter)
• Inspect hatch seals and confirm the watertight closing arrangement
• Verify emergency equipment and provisions are stowed, in date, and complete
• Test steering, and confirm compass and navigation light function
• Check release gear interlocks preventing operation with hooks engaged
• Confirm the annual thorough examination/load test by an authorized service provider

Service intervals

Typical wear limits

Ranges are typical for this design class. Always confirm against the manufacturer documentation for your serial number.

Critical spares

• On-load release gear service kit as specified by the release gear manufacturer
• Falls (wire rope) matching original specification
• Hatch/door seals and gaskets
• Engine starting battery
• Fuel filters and raw water pump impeller for the lifeboat engine
• Emergency equipment consumables per SOLAS pack list

Safety

• On-load release gear is a recognized high-risk item - never work under a suspended lifeboat, and follow manufacturer procedures strictly during testing
• Fall of the boat during davit/winch maintenance if brakes or pawls are not secured
• Engine exhaust accumulation in an enclosed compartment during static engine tests
• Release and drill hazards - follow the vessel's risk assessment and manufacturer instructions strictly

Class survey

Lifeboats and their launching appliances are core LSA items under SOLAS Ch. III - class expects records of weekly/monthly checks, the annual thorough examination, and the 5-yearly release gear overhaul/load test from an authorized service supplier. Any modification or repair to the release gear typically requires manufacturer or class approval.

Estimated lifetime: Not meaningfully expressed in running hours; the lifeboat hull and davit arrangement is generally expected to remain in service for the vessel's operating life with periodic overhaul, while the on-load release gear has a recognized 5-year overhaul/replacement cycle under SOLAS.