Question 4006 Deck General

The correct answer is B) prevent the chain from fouling the wildcat. The stripping bar on an anchor windlass serves to guide the anchor chain as it is paid out or retrieved, preventing it from becoming tangled or caught on the wildcat (the circular drum that the chain wraps around). This helps ensure the smooth operation of the windlass and prevents damage to the chain or other components. The other answer choices do not accurately describe the primary purpose of the stripping bar.