Question 6 1AE01 - First Assistant Engineer

The Correct Answer is A. **Why Option A is Correct:** Option A, "Attempt to pump out another bilge well to determine if the entire system is affected," represents the most logical and efficient first step in diagnosing a localized failure in a complex pumping system. The fundamental diagnostic question is always whether the problem is **systemic** (a failure in the primary pump, motor, or discharge line) or **localized** (a blockage or failure specific to the line leading only to the aft starboard engine room bilge well). By successfully pumping another well, you confirm that the main pump unit, motor, and general discharge path are functional. This immediately narrows the focus of troubleshooting to the piping, valves, or strainer specific to the affected aft starboard well, saving significant time and effort. **Why Other Options Are Incorrect:** * **B) Open the bilge pump for inspection:** This assumes the problem is systemic (affecting the main pump), which is a major, time-consuming task involving disassembly of critical equipment. If the system can successfully pump another well (as determined by Option A), opening the main pump would be unnecessary and introduce risk of error during reassembly. * **C) Remove only the manifold valve to the affected bilge well:** While the problem might be a failed valve, removing the valve (especially before testing the main pump's functionality) is a disruptive maintenance action. The issue could simply be a clogged strainer or a blockage in the line before the valve. Removing hardware should generally occur only after simple operational checks (like Option A) have localized the failure point. * **D) Remove each of the manifold valves:** This is an overly broad and maintenance-intensive approach. It assumes the issue is with the valves but fails to pinpoint the specific location. It is highly inefficient compared to first checking if the main system is operational (Option A).