USCG Exam PracticeDeck machinery and ground tackle
On an anchor windlass, the wildcat's whelps serve what specific function?
- A. They act as a friction surface for the brake band to control chain speed during letting go
- ✓ They are shaped pockets that grip each individual link of chain to transmit drive forceCorrect
- C. They lock the wildcat to the drive shaft when the clutch is engaged
- D. They guide the chain from the spurling pipe onto the wildcat to prevent jumping
Why B is correct
Per NAVEDTRA 14343 §4-3, the wildcat is a notched, sprocket-like drum whose pockets — called whelps — are shaped to grip each link of chain. This positive engagement is what allows the windlass to heave in or pay out the chain under load. The clutch (locking head) is the separate component that connects the wildcat to the drive shaft.
Cited:NAVEDTRA 14343 §4-3