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ARCTIC STAR OPERATING MANUAL
NW Explorations
6.1.5
Engine oil level
We use the dipstick to check the level of lubricating oil in each engine. The dipsticks are on the
inboard side of each engine toward the aft end. Use a paper towel to wipe the dipstick as you
pull it out and then reinsert it. Remove the dipstick again and read the level of oil on the
dipstick, it should be between the high and low marks. If it is below the low mark, add about a
quart of oil, let it settle for a minute and then check the dipstick again. The dipstick and oil fills
are illustrated below by arrows.
Checking the oil in the generator daily is not necessary. Our technicians service the generator
before each charter and complete any required maintenance task needed. If you feel
compelled, you may check the oil once on a weekly basis. The dipstick is on the starboard side
of the engine inside of the generator compartment and is accessed through an inspection port.
Checking the transmission oil is not necessary. Our technicians check this before each charter
and complete any required maintenance task needed. You should however look around the
transmission for any leaks.
As you exit the engine room, look around and be sure everything looks as it should. Be sure to
turn off the engine room lights at the electric panel after you leave.
6.2
Fuel Management, Fuel manifold and Fuel level
Diesel fuel is stored in two 300-gallon tanks mounted on starboard
and port side at the aft end of the engine room. These tanks are
filled from a pipe on both the starboard and port side decks. The
deck plates are stamped with
‘DIESEL.’ On the port side, the deck
fill is close to the water fill and the waste pump out and it is easy to
get these mixed up. Be careful to pump fuel into the correct tank.
As you are fueling listen to the sound of fuel flowing into the tanks,
when the sound changes or when you hear gurgling stop filling the
tank. We recommend that a crew member should be in the engine
room watching the fuel level rise in the sight-glass tube. This crew
member an communicate with a handheld VHF radio or by cell phone. When the level
disappears into the valve fitting at the top of the sight glass, continue to fill for one minute then
tank is full and fueling should be stopped. Another crew member may monitor the fuel gauges
on the overhead dashboard.
