USCG Exam Practice · Line handling and mooring
When towing astern, 33 CFR §164.74 requires that each towline as rigged must be free of knots and spliced with a thimble or have a poured socket at its end. Wire clips are permitted under which condition?
- AWhenever the towline is made of synthetic fiber
- BFor temporary repair only, using a thimble and the greater of five clips or the manufacturer's specified number✓ correct
- CFor permanent installation provided at least three wire clips are used
- DWhenever the towline exceeds the vessel's bollard pull rating
Why B is correct
33 CFR §164.74(a)(2)(iii) permits wire clips only for temporary repair, and requires a thimble plus either five wire clips or as many as the manufacturer specifies for the nominal diameter and construction, whichever is more.
Cited:33 CFR §164.74
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