CCLME.ORG - 33 CFR PART 183—BOATS AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT
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(continued)

(b) As used in this subpart, the term “passenger carrying area” means each area in a boat in which persons can sit in a normal sitting position or stand while the boat is in operation. Passenger carrying areas are illustrated in Figures 3 through 8.

(c) The length of each passenger carrying area is the distance along the centerline of the boat between two vertical lines, one at the forward end and one at the aft end of the passenger carrying area, when the boat is level, as illustrated in Figures 3 and 4. For boats with a curved stem inside the passenger carrying area, the forward vertical line is where a line 45 degrees to the horizontal when the boat is level is tangent to the curve of the stem, as illustrated in Figure 5. For boats with cabins, the forward vertical line is where there is a minimum distance of two feet between the inside top of the cabin and the water line formed when the boat is swamped and loaded with weights under §183.320 as illustrated in Figure 6.

(d) The breadth of the passenger carrying area is the distance beteen two vertical lines at the mid-length, excluding consoles, of the passenger carrying area when the boat is level as illustrated in Figures 7 and 8. For boats with round chines inside the passenger carrying area, the vertical line is where a transverse line 45 degrees to the horizontal is tangent to the arc of the chine, as illustrated in Figure 7.

[CGD 75–168, 42 FR 20245, Apr. 18, 1977; 42 FR 24738, May 16, 1977]

§ 183.310 Reference areas.
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(a) The forward reference area of a boat is the forwardmost 2 feet of the top surface of the hull or deck as illustrated in Figure 9.

(b) The aft reference area of a boat is the aftmost two feet of the top surface of the hull or deck, as illustrated in Figure 9.

§ 183.315 Reference depth.
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Reference depth is the minimum distance between the uppermost surface of the submerged reference area of a boat and the surface of the water measured at the centerline of the boat, as illustrated in Figure 10. If there is no deck surface at the centerline of the boat from which a measurement can be made, the reference depth is the average of two depth measurements made on opposite sides of, and at an equal distance from, the centerline of the boat.

§ 183.320 Preconditioning for tests.
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A boat must meet the following conditions for at least 18 hours before the tests required by §§183.325, 183.330, and 183.335:

(a) Manufacturer supplied permanent appurtenances such as windshields, and convertible tops must be installed on the boat.

(b) The boat must be loaded with a quantity of weight that, when submerged, is equal to the sum of the following:

(1) Two-fifteenths of the persons capacity marked on the boat.

(2) Twenty-five percent of the result of the following calculation, but not less than zero: the maximum weight capacity marked on the boat; less the weight shown in column 6 of Table 4 for the maximum horsepower marked on the boat; less the persons capacity marked on the boat.

(c) The weights required by paragraph (b) of this section are placed in the boat so that the center of gravity of each amount of weight required by paragraphs (b)(1) and (b)(2) of this section is within the shaded area illustrated in Figure 11. The location and dimensions of the shaded area are as follows:

(1) The shaded area is centered at the mid-length of the passenger carrying area and at the mid-breadth of the boat;

(2) The length of the shaded area, measured along the centerline of the boat, is equal to 40 percent of the length of the passenger carrying area of the boat; and

(3) The breadth of the shaded area, measured at the mid-length of the passenger carrying area, is equal to 40 percent of the breadth of the passenger carrying area of the boat.

(d) Weight must be placed in the normal operating position of the motor and controls in lieu of this equipment. The quantity of weight used for this purpose depends upon the maximum rated horsepower of the boat being tested and is specified in Column 2 of Table 4 for the swamped weight of the motor and controls.

(e) Permanent fuel tanks must be filled with fuel and each external opening into the fuel tank must be sealed.

(f) The boat must be keel down in the water.

(g) The boat must be swamped, allowing water to flow between the inside and the outside of the boat, either over the sides, through a hull opening, or both. Entrapped air in the flooded portion of the boat must be eliminated.

§ 183.322 Flotation materials.
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(a) Flotation materials must meet the requirements in §183.114 as listed in Table 183.114 when used in the bilge, unless located in a sealed compartment.

[CGD 77–145, 43 FR 56859, Dec. 4, 1978; 44 FR 47934, Aug. 16, 1979]

Tests
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§ 183.325 Flotation test for persons capacity.
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Flotation standard. When the conditions prescribed in §183.320 are met, the boat must float in fresh, calm water as follows:

(a) The angle of heel does not exceed 10 degrees from the horizontal.

(b) Any point on either the forward or aft reference area is above the surface of the water.

(c) The reference depth at the reference area that is opposite the reference area that is above the surface of the water is 6 inches or less.

§ 183.330 Stability test.
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(a) Flotation standard. When the conditions prescribed in §183.320 (a), (d) through (g) and paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section are met, the boat must float in fresh, calm water as follows:

(1) The angle of heel does not exceed 30 degrees from the horizontal.

(2) Any point on either the forward or aft reference area is above the surface of the water.

(3) The reference depth at the reference area that is opposite the reference area that is above the surface of the water is 12 inches or less.

(b) Quantity of weight used. Load the boat with quantity of weight that, when submerged, is equal to the sum of the following:

(1) One-half the quantity of weight required by §183.320(b)(1).

(2) The quantity of weight required by §183.320(b)(2).

(c) Placement of quantity of weight: starboard side. Place the quantity of weight required by paragraph (b) of this section in the boat so that:

(1) The quantity of weight required by §183.320(b)(2) is positioned in accordance with §183.320(c); and

(2) One-half the quantity of weight required by §183.320(b)(1) is uniformly distributed over a distance along the outboard perimeter of the starboard side of the passenger carrying area that is equal to at least 30 percent of the length of the passenger carrying area so that the center of gravity of the quantity of weight is located within the shaded area illustrated in Figure 12, the center of gravity of the amount of weight placed on the floor of the boat is at least 4 inches above the floor and the center of gravity of the amount of weight placed on a seat is at least 4 inches above the seat. The location and dimensions of the shaded area are as follows:

(i) The shaded area is centered at the mid-length of the passenger carrying area;

(ii) The length of the shaded area is equal to 70 percent of the length of the passenger carrying area; and

(iii) The breadth of the shaded area is 6 inches from:

(a) For weights placed on the floor, the outboard perimeter of the passenger carrying area; and

(b) For weights placed on a seat, a vertical line inside the passenger carrying area as illustrated in Figure 13.

(d) Placement of quantity of weight: port side. The quantity of weight required by paragraph (b)(1) of this section is placed along the port side of the passenger carrying area in accordance with the conditions prescribed in paragraph (c)(2) of this section.

§ 183.335 Level flotation test without weights for persons capacity.
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When the conditions prescribed in §183.320 (a) and (d) through (g) are met, the boat must float in fresh, calm water as follows:

(a) The angle of heel does not exceed 10 degrees from the horizontal.

(b) Any point on either the forward or aft reference area is above the surface of the water.

(c) The reference depth at the reference area that is opposite the reference area that is above the surface of the water is 6 inches or less.

[CGD 75–168, 42 FR 20245, Apr. 18, 1977, as amended by USCG–1999–5832, 64 FR 34716, June 29, 1999]

Table 4 to Subpart H of Part 183—Weights (Pounds) of Outboard Motor and Related Equipment for Various Boat Horsepower Ratings
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Motor and control weight Battery weight Full
---------------------------------------------------- portable
Boat horsepower rating fuel tank 1+3+5
Dry Swamped Dry Submerged weight
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Column No.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 2 3 4 5 6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
0.1 to 2............................ 25 20 ........... ........... ........... 25
2.1 to 3.9.......................... 40 34 ........... ........... ........... 40
4.0 to 7............................ 60 52 ........... ........... 25 35
7.1 to 15........................... 90 82 20 11 50 160
15.1 to 25.......................... 125 105 45 25 50 220
25.1 to 45.......................... 170 143 45 25 100 315
45.1 to 60.......................... 235 195 45 25 100 380
60.1 to 80.......................... 280 235 45 25 100 425
80.1 to 145......................... 405 352 45 25 100 550
145.1 to 275........................ 430 380 45 25 100 575
275.1 and up........................ 605 538 45 25 100 750
Transoms designed for twin motors
50.1 to 90.......................... 340 286 90 50 100 530
90.1 to 120......................... 470 390 90 50 100 660
120.1 to 160........................ 560 470 90 50 100 750
160.1 to 290........................ 810 704 90 50 100 1000
290.1 to 550........................ 860 760 90 50 100 1050
550.1 and up........................ 1210 1076 90 50 100 1400
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[CGD 83–012, 49 FR 39328, Oct. 5, 1984]

Figures to Subpart H of Part 183
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Subpart I—Electrical Systems
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Source: CGD 73–217, 42 FR 5944, Jan. 31, 1977, unless otherwise noted.

General
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§ 183.401 Purpose, applicability, and effective dates.
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(a) This subpart applies to all boats that have gasoline engines, except outboard engines, for electrical generation, mechanical power, or propulsion.

(b) [Reserved]

[CGD 73–217, 42 FR 5944, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55736, Dec. 15, 1983; USCG–1999–5832, 64 FR 34716, June 29, 1999]

§ 183.402 Definitions.
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As used in this subpart—

AWG means American Wire Gauge.

Electrical component means electrical equipment such as, but not limited to, conductors, solenoids, motors, generators, alternators, distributors, resistors, appliances and electrical control devices.

Pigtails means external power conductors or wires that are part of electrical components and appliances, such as bilge pumps, blowers, lamps, switches, solenoids, and fuses.

Sheath means a material used as a continuous protective covering, such as electrical tape, molded rubber, molded plastic, or flexible tubing, around one or more insulated conductors.

[CGD 73–217, 42 FR 5944, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 85–098, 52 FR 19728, May 27, 1987; CGD 96–026, 61 FR 33670, June 28, 1996]

§ 183.405 General.
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Each electrical component on a boat to which this subpart applies must meet the requirements of this subpart unless the component is part of an outboard engine or part of portable equipment.

Manufacturer Requirements
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§ 183.410 Ignition protection.
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(a) Each electrical component must not ignite a propane gas and air mixture that is 4.25 to 5.25 percent propane gas by volume surrounding the electrical component when it is operated at each of its manufacturer rated voltages and current loadings, unless it is isolated from gasoline fuel sources, such as engines, and valves, connections, or other fittings in vent lines, fill lines, distribution lines or on fuel tanks, in accordance with paragraph (b) of this section.

(b) An electrical component is isolated from a gasoline fuel source if:

(1) A bulkhead that meets the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section is between the electrical component and the gasoline fuel source;

(2) The electrical component is:

(i) Lower than the gasoline fuel source and a means is provided to prevent fuel and fuel vapors that may leak from the gasoline fuel source from becoming exposed to the electrical component; or

(ii) Higher than the gasoline fuel source and a deck or other enclosure is between it and the gasoline fuel source; or

(3) The space between the electrical component and the gasoline fuel source is at least two feet and the space is open to the atmosphere.

(c) Each bulkhead required by paragraph (b)(1) of this section must:

(1) Separate the electrical component from the gasoline fuel source and extend both vertically and horizontally the distance of the open space between the fuel source and the ignition source;

(2) Resist a water level that is 12 inches high or one-third of the maximum height of the bulkhead, whichever is less, without seepage of more than one-quarter fluid ounce of fresh water per hour; and

(3) Have no opening located higher than 12 inches or one-third the maximum height of the bulkhead, whichever is less, unless the opening is used for the passage of conductors, piping, ventilation ducts, mechanical equipment, and similar items, or doors, hatches, and access panels, and the maximum annular space around each item or door, hatch or access panel must not be more than one-quarter inch.

§ 183.415 Grounding.
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If a boat has more than one gasoline engine, grounded cranking motor circuits must be connected to each other by a common conductor circuit that can carry the starting current of each of the grounded cranking motor circuits.

§ 183.420 Batteries.
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(a) Each installed battery must not move more than one inch in any direction when a pulling force of 90 pounds or twice the battery weight, whichever is less, is applied through the center of gravity of the battery as follows:

(1) Vertically for a duration of one minute.

(2) Horizontally and parallel to the boat's center line for a duration of one minute fore and one minute aft.

(3) Horizontally and perpendicular to the boat's center line for a duration of one minute to starboard and one minute to port.

(b) Each battery must be installed so that metallic objects cannot come in contact with the ungrounded battery terminals.

(c) Each metallic fuel line and fuel system component within 12 inches and above the horizontal plane of the battery top surface as installed must be shielded with dielectric material.

(d) Each battery must not be directly above or below a fuel tank, fuel filter, or fitting in a fuel line.

(e) A vent system or other means must be provided to permit the discharge from the boat of hydrogen gas released by the battery.

(f) [Reserved]

(g) Each battery terminal connector must not depend on spring tension for its mechanical connection to the terminal.

[CGD 73–217, 42 FR 5944, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55736, Dec. 15, 1983]

§ 183.425 Conductors: General.
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(a) Each conductor must be insulated, stranded copper.

(b) Except for intermittent surges each conductor must not carry a current greater than that specified in Table 5 for the conductor's gauge and temperature rating.

(c) For conductors in engine spaces, amperages must be corrected by the appropriate correction factor in note 1 of Table 5.

(d) Each conductor in a multiconductor sheath must be at least a No. 18 AWG conductor.

(e) Each conductor installed separately must be at least a No. 16 AWG conductor.

(f) Each No. 18 AWG conductor in a multiconductor sheath may not extend out of the sheath more than 30 inches.

(g) This section does not apply to communications systems; electronic navigation equipment; electronic circuits having a current flow of less than one ampere; conductors which are totally inside an equipment housing; resistance conductors that control circuit amperage; high voltage secondary conductors and terminations that are in ignition systems; pigtails of less than seven inches of exposed length and cranking motor conductors.


Table 5_Allowable Amperage of Conductors
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Temperature rating of conductor insulation
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
75 80 90 105 125
Conductor size (AWG) 60 °C °C °C °C °C °C 200 °C
(140 (167 (176 (194 (221 (257 (392
°F) °F) °F) °F) °F) °F) °F)
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18.................................... 10 10 15 20 20 25 25
16.................................... 15 15 20 25 25 30 35
14.................................... 20 20 25 30 35 40 45
12.................................... 25 25 35 40 45 50 55
10.................................... 40 40 50 55 60 70 70
8..................................... 55 65 70 70 80 90 100
6..................................... 80 95 100 100 120 125 135
4..................................... 105 125 130 135 160 170 180
3..................................... 120 145 150 155 180 195 210
2..................................... 140 170 175 180 210 225 240
1..................................... 165 195 210 210 245 265 280
0..................................... 195 230 245 245 285 305 325
00.................................... 225 265 285 285 330 355 370
000................................... 260 310 330 330 385 410 430
0000.................................. 300 360 385 385 445 475 510
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NOTES
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1. See the following table: 60 °C 75 80 90 105 125 200 °C
°C °C °C °C °C
(140 (167 (176 (194 (221 (257 (392
°F) °F) °F) °F) °F) °F) °F)
Temperature rating of conductor..... 0.58 0.75 0.78 0.82 0.85 0.89 1.00
2. See the following table: Correction
factor
Number of current carrying
conductors:
3................................. 0.70
4 to 6............................ .60
7 to 24........................... .50
25 and above...................... .40
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[CGD 73–217, 42 FR 5944, Jan. 31, 1977; 42 FR 24739, May 16, 1977, as amended by CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55736, Dec. 15, 1983]

§ 183.430 Conductors in circuits of less than 50 volts.
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(a) Each conductor in a circuit that has a nominal voltage of less than 50 volts must:

(1) Meet the requirements of §183.435; or

(2) Meet:

(i) The insulating material temperature rating requirements of SAE Standard J378; and

(ii) SAE Standard J1127, or SAE Standard 1128.

(b) This section does not apply to communication systems; electronic navigation equipment; resistance conductors that control circuit amperage; and pigtails of less than seven inches of exposed length.

[CGD 73–217, 42 FR 5944, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 87–009, 53 FR 36971, Sept. 23, 1988]

§ 183.435 Conductors in circuits of 50 volts or more.
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(a) Each conductor in a circuit that has a nominal voltage of 50 volts or more must be:

(1) A conductor that has insulation listed and classified moisture resistant and flame retardant in Article 310, NFPA No. 70, National Electric Code;

(2) A flexible cord type SO, STO, ST, SJO, SJT, or SJTO listed in Article 400, NFPA No. 70, National Electric Code;

(3) A conductor that meets IEEE Standard 45.

(4) A conductor that meets UL Standard 1426.

(b) Where the nominal circuit voltage of each of three or more current carrying conductors in a duct, bundle, or cable is 50 volts or more, the amperages of each of those conductors must not exceed the value in table 5 multiplied by the correction factor in note 2 to Table 5 for the number of conductors that carry 50 volts or more.

(c) This section does not apply to communication systems; electronic navigation equipment; resistance conductors that control circuit amperage; conductors in secondary circuits of ignition systems; and pigtails of less than seven inches of exposed length.

[CGD 73–217, 42 FR 5944, Jan. 31, 1977; 42 FR 24739, May 16, 1977, as amended by CGD 80–047 and CGD 80–046, 45 FR 85450, Dec. 29, 1980; CGD 87–009, 53 FR 36972, Sept. 23, 1988]

§ 183.440 Secondary circuits of ignition systems.
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(a) Each conductor in a secondary circuit of an ignition system must meet SAE Standard J557.

(b) The connection of each ignition conductor to a spark plug, coil, or distributor must have a tight fitting cap, boot, or nipple.

[CGD 73–217, 42 FR 5944, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by USCG–1999–5832, 64 FR 34716, June 29, 1999]

§ 183.445 Conductors: Protection.
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(a) Each conductor or group of conductors that passes through a bulkhead, structural member, junction box, or other rigid surface must be protected from abrasion.

(b) Each ungrounded terminal or stud that is continuously energized must meet §183.455 or must have a boot, nipple, cap, cover, or shield that prevents accidental short-circuiting at the terminals or studs.

[CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55736, Dec. 15, 1983]

§ 183.455 Overcurrent protection: General.
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(a) Each ungrounded current-carrying conductor must be protected by a manually reset, tripfree circuit breaker or fuse.

(b) A manually reset, trip-free circuit breaker or fuse must be placed at the source of power for each circuit or conductor except:

(1) If it is physically impractical to place the circuit breaker or fuse at the source of power, it may be placed within seven inches of the source of power for each circuit or conductor measured along the conductor.

(2) If it is physically impractical to place the circuit breaker or fuse at or within seven inches of the source of power, it may be placed within 40 inches of the source of power for each circuit or conductor, measured along the conductor, if the conductor is contained throughout its entire distance between the source of power and the required circuit breaker or fuse in a sheath or enclosure such as a junction box, control box, or enclosed panel.

(c) The current rating of each circuit breaker or fuse must not exceed:

(1) For circuits of less than 50 volts, 150% of the value of the amperage in Table 5 for the conductor size it is protecting; and

(2) For circuits of 50 volts or more, the value of the amperage in Table 5 for the conductor size it is protecting. If this value does not correspond to a standard size or rated circuit breaker or fuse the next larger size or rated circuit breaker or fuse may be used if it does not exceed 150% of the allowed current capacity of the conductor.

(d) The voltage rating of each circuit breaker or fuse must not be less than the nominal circuit voltage of the circuit it is protecting.

(e) This section does not apply to resistance conductors that control circuit amperage; conductors in secondary circuits of ignition systems; pigtails of less than seven inches of exposed length; and power supply conductors in cranking motor circuits.

[CGD 73–217, 42 FR 5944, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 78–090, 44 FR 68466, Nov. 29, 1979]

§ 183.460 Overcurrent protection: Special applications.
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(a) Each ungrounded output conductor from a storage battery must have a manually reset, trip-free circuit breaker or fuse, unless the output conductor is in the main power feed circuit from the battery to an engine cranking motor. The circuit breaker or fuse must be within 72 inches of the battery measured along the conductor, unless, for boats built prior to August 1, 1985, the circuit has a switch that disconnects the battery.

(b) Each ungrounded output conductor from an alternator or generator, except for self-limiting alternators or generators, must have a circuit breaker or fuse that has a current rating that does not exceed 120 percent of the maximum rated current of the alternator or generator at 60 °C.

[CGD 73–217, 42 FR 5944, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55736, Dec. 15, 1983]

Subpart J—Fuel Systems
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Source: CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, unless otherwise noted.

General
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§ 183.501 Applicability.
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(a) This subpart applies to all boats that have gasoline engines, except outboard engines, for electrical generation, mechanical power, or propulsion.

(b) [Reserved]

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55736, Dec. 15, 1983; USCG–1999–5832, 64 FR 34716, June 29, 1999]

§ 183.505 Definitions.
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As used in this subpart:

Flame arrestor means a device or assembly that prevents passage of flame through a fuel vent.

Fuel system means the entire assembly of the fuel fill, vent, tank, and distribution components, including pumps, valves, strainers, carburetors, and filters.

Static floating position means the attitude in which a boat floats in calm water, with each fuel tank filled to its rated capacity, but with no person or item of portable equipment on board.

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 85–098, 52 FR 19728, May 27, 1987]

§ 183.507 General.
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Each fuel system component on a boat to which this subpart applies must meet the requirements of this subpart unless the component is part of an outboard engine or is part of portable equipment.

Equipment Standards
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§ 183.510 Fuel tanks.
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(a) Each fuel tank in a boat must have been tested by its manufacturer under §183.580 and not leak when subjected to the pressure marked on the tank label under §183.514(b)(5).

(b) Each fuel tank must not leak if subjected to the fire test under §183.590. Leakage is determined by the static pressure test under §183.580, except that the test pressure must be at least one-fourth PSIG.

(c) Each fuel tank of less than 25 gallons capacity must not leak if tested under §183.584.

(d) Each fuel tank with a capacity of 25 to 199 gallons must not leak if tested under §183.586.

(e) Each fuel tank of 200 gallons capacity or more must not leak if tested under §§183.586 and 183.588.

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55736, Dec. 15, 1983]

§ 183.512 Fuel tanks: Prohibited materials.
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(a) A fuel tank must not be constructed from terneplate.

(b) Unless it has an inorganic sacrificial galvanic coating on the inside and outside of the tank, a fuel tank must not be constructed from black iron or carbon steel.

(c) A fuel tank encased in cellular plastic or in fiber reinforced plastic must not be constructed from a ferrous alloy.

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977; 42 FR 24739, May 16, 1977]

§ 183.514 Fuel tanks: Labels.
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(a) Each fuel tank must have a label that meets the requirements of paragraphs (b) through (d) of this section.

(b) Each label required by paragraph (a) of this section must contain the following information:

(1) Fuel tank manufacturer's name (or logo) and address.

(2) Month (or lot number) and year of manufacture.

(3) Capacity in U.S. gallons.

(4) Material of construction.

(5) The pressure the tank is designed to withstand without leaking.

(6) Model number, if applicable.

(7) The statement, “This tank has been tested under 33 CFR 183.510(a).”

(8) If the tank is tested under §183.584 at less than 25g vertical accelerations the statement, “Must be installed aft of the boat's half length.”

(c) Each letter and each number on a label must:

(1) Be at least 1/16 inch high and

(2) Contrast with the basic color of the label or be embossed on the label.

(d) Each label must:

(1) Withstand the combined effects of exposure to water, oil, salt spray, direct sunlight, heat, cold, and wear expected in normal operation of the boat, without loss of legibility; and

(2) Resist efforts to remove or alter the information on the label without leaving some obvious sign of such efforts.

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55737, Dec. 15, 1983; USCG–1999–5832, 64 FR 34716, June 29, 1999]

§ 183.516 Cellular plastic used to encase fuel tanks.
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(a) Cellular plastic used to encase metallic fuel tanks must:

(1) Not change volume by more than five percent or dissolve after being immersed in any of the following liquids for 24 hours at 29 °C:

(i) Reference fuel B ASTM D 471 (incorporated by reference, see §183.5).

(ii) No. 2 reference oil of ASTM D 471 (incorporated by reference, see §183.5).

(iii) Five percent solution of trisodium phosphate in water; and

(2) Not absorb more than 0.12 pound of water per square foot of cut surface, measure under Military Specification MIL P–21929B.

(b) Non-polyurethane cellular plastic used to encase metallic fuel tanks must have a compressive strength of at least 60 pounds per square inch at ten percent deflection measured under ASTM D 1621 (incorporated by reference, see §183.5), “Compressive Strength of Rigid Cellular Plastics”.

(c) Polyurethane cellular plastic used to encase metallic fuel tanks must have a density of at least 2.0 pounds per cubic foot, measured under ASTM D 1622 (incorporated by reference, see §183.5), “Apparent Density of Rigid Cellular Plastics.”

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 77–98, 42 FR 36253, July 14, 1977; CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55737, Dec. 15, 1983; USCG–2000–7223, 65 FR 40059, June 29, 2000]

§ 183.518 Fuel tank openings.
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Each opening into the fuel tank must be at or above the topmost surface of the tank.

§ 183.520 Fuel tank vent systems.
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(a) Each fuel tank must have a vent system that prevents pressure in the tank from exceeding 80 percent of the pressure marked on the tank label under §183.514(b)(5).

(b) Each vent must:

(1) Have a flame arrester that can be cleaned unless the vent is itself a flame arrestor; and

(2) Not allow a fuel overflow at the rate of up to two gallons per minute to enter the boat.

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 77–98, 42 FR 36253, July 14, 1977]

§ 183.524 Fuel pumps.
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(a) Each diaphragm pump must not leak fuel from the pump if the primary diaphragm fails.

(b) Each electrically operated fuel pump must not operate except when the engine is operating or when the engine is started.

(c) If tested under §183.590, each fuel pump, as installed in the boat, must not leak more than five ounces of fuel in 2 1/2 minutes, inclusive of leaks from fuel line, fuel filter and strainer.

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 77–98, 42 FR 36253, July 14, 1977]

§ 183.526 Carburetors.
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(a) [Reserved]

(b) Each carburetor must not leak more than five cubic centimeters of fuel in 30 seconds when:

(1) The float valve is open;

(2) The carburetor is at half throttle; and

(3) The engine is cranked without starting; or

(4) The fuel pump is delivering the maximum pressure specified by its manufacturer.

(c) Each updraft and horizontal draft carburetor must have a device that:

(1) Collects and holds fuel that flows out of the carburetor venturi section toward the air intake;

(2) Prevents collected fuel from being carried out of the carburetor assembly by the shock wave of a backfire or by reverse air flow; and

(3) Returns collected fuel to the engine induction system after the engine starts,

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 77–98, 42 FR 36253, July 14, 1977]

§ 183.528 Fuel stop valves.
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(a) Each electrically operated fuel stop valve in a fuel line between the fuel tank and the engine must:

(1) Open electrically only when the ignition switch is on; and

(2) Operate manually.

(b) If tested in accordance with the fire test under §183.590, a fuel stop valve installed in a fuel line system requiring metallic fuel lines or “USCG Type A1” hose must not leak fuel.

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 85–098, 52 FR 19728, May 27, 1987]

§ 183.530 Spud, pipe, and hose fitting configuration.
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Except when used for a tank fill line, each spud, pipe, or hose fitting used with hose clamps must have:

(a) A bead;

(b) A flare; or

(c) A series of annular grooves or serrations no less than 0.015 inches deep, except a continuous helical thread, knurl, or groove.

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by USCG–1999–5832, 64 FR 34716, June 29, 1999]

§ 183.532 Clips, straps, and hose clamps.
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(a) Each clip, strap, and hose clamp must:

(1) Be made from a corrosion resistant material; and

(2) Not cut or abrade the fuel line.

(b) If tested in accordance with the fire test under §183.590, a hose clamp installed on a fuel line system requiring metallic fuel lines or “USCG Type A1” hose must not separate under a one pound tensile force.

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 85–098, 52 FR 19728, May 27, 1987]

§ 183.534 Fuel filters and strainers.
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If tested under §183.590, each fuel filter and strainer, as installed in the boat, must not leak more than five ounces of fuel in 2 1/2 minutes inclusive of leaks from the fuel pump and fuel line.

[CGD 77–98, 42 FR 36253, July 14, 1977]

§ 183.536 Seals and gaskets in fuel filters and strainers.
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(a) [Reserved]

(b) Each gasket and each sealed joint in a fuel filter and strainer must not leak when subjected for 24 hours to a gasoline that has at least a 50 percent aromatic content at the test pressure marked on the fuel tank label.

[CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55737, Dec. 15, 1983]

§ 183.538 Metallic fuel line materials.
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Each metallic fuel line connecting the fuel tank with the fuel inlet connection on the engine must:

(a) Be made of seamless annealed copper, nickel copper, or copper-nickel; and

(b) Except for corrugated flexible fuel line, have a minimum wall thickness of 0.029 inches.

§ 183.540 Hoses: Standards and markings.
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(a) “USCG Type A1” hose means hose that meets the performance requirements of:

(1) SAE Standard J1527DEC85, Class 1 and the fire test in §183.590; or

(2) Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc. (UL) Standard 1114.

(b) “USCG Type A2” hose means hose that meets the performance requirements of SAE Standard J1527DEC85, Class 2 and the fire test in §183.590;

(c) “USCG Type B1” hose means hose that meets the performance requirements of SAE Standard J1527DEC85, Class 1.

(d) “USCG Type B2” hose means hose that meets the performance requirements of SAE Standard J1527DEC85, Class 2.

Note: SAE Class 1 hose has a permeation rating of 100 grams or less fuel loss per square meter of interior surface in 24 hours.

SAE Class 2 hose has a permeation rating of 300 grams or less fuel loss per square meter of interior surface in 24 hours.

(e) Each “USCG Type A1,” “USCG Type A2,” “USCG Type B1,” and “USCG Type B2” hose must be identified by the manufacturer by a marking on the hose.

(f) Each marking must contain the following information in English:

(1) The statement “USCG TYPE (insert A1 or A2 or B1 or B2).”

(2) The year in which the hose was manufactured.

(3) The manufacturer's name or registered trademark.

(g) Each character must be block capital letters and numerals that are at least one eighth-inch high.

(h) Each marking must be permanent, legible, and on the outside of the hose at intervals of 12 inches or less.

[CGD 85–098, 52 FR 19728, May 27, 1987]

§ 183.542 Fuel systems.
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(a) Each fuel system in a boat must have been tested by the boat manufacturer and not leak when subjected to the greater of the following pressures:

(1) Three pounds per square inch; or

(2) One and one-half times the pressure created in the lowest part of the fuel system when it is filled to the level of overflow with fuel.

(b) The test pressure shall be obtained with air or inert gas.

[CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55737, Dec. 15, 1983]

Manufacturer Requirements
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§ 183.550 Fuel tanks: Installation.
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(a) Each fuel tank must not be integral with any boat structure or mounted on an engine.

(b) Each fuel tank must not move at the mounting surface more than onefourth inch in any direction.

(c) Each fuel tank must not support a deck, bulkhead, or other structural component.

(d) Water must drain from the top surface of each metallic fuel tank when the boat is in its static floating position.

(e) Each fuel tank support, chock, or strap that is not integral with a metallic fuel tank must be insulated from the tank surface by a nonmoisture absorbing material.

(f) Cellular plastic must not be the sole support for a metallic fuel tank.

(g) If cellular plastic is the sole support of a non-metallic fuel tank, the cellular plastic must meet the requirements of §183.516 (b) or (c).

(h) Each fuel tank labeled under §183.514(b)(8) for installation aft of the boat's half length must be installed with its center of gravity aft of the boat's half length.

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55737, Dec. 15, 1983; USCG–1999–5832, 64 FR 34716, June 29, 1999]

§ 183.552 Plastic encased fuel tanks: Installation.
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(a) Each fuel tank encased in cellular plastic foam or in fiber reinforced plastic must have the connections, fittings, and labels accessible for inspection and maintenance.

(b) If a metallic fuel tank is encased in cellular plastic or in fiber reinforced plastic, water must not collect between the plastic and the surface of the tank or be held against the tank by capillary action.

(c) If the plastic is bonded to the surface of a metallic fuel tank, the adhesive strength of the metal to the plastic bond must exceed the cohesive strength of the plastic.

§ 183.554 Fittings, joints, and connections.
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Each fuel system fitting, joint, and connection must be arranged so that it can be reached for inspection, removal, or maintenance without removal of permanent boat structure.

§ 183.556 Plugs and fittings.
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(a) A fuel system must not have a fitting for draining fuel.

(b) A plug used to service the fuel filter or strainer must have a tapered pipethread or be a screw type fitted with a locking device other than a split lock washer.

§ 183.558 Hoses and connections.
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(a) Each hose used between the fuel pump and the carburetor must be “USCG Type A1” hose.

(b) Each hose used—

(1) For a vent line or fill line must be:

(i) “USCG Type A1” or “USCG Type A2”; or

(ii) “USCG Type B1” or “USCG Type B2” if no more than five ounces of fuel is discharged in 2 1/2 minutes when:

(A) The hose is severed at the point where maximum drainage of fuel would occur,

(B) The boat is in its static floating position, and

(C) The fuel system is filled to the capacity market on the tank label under §183.514(b)(3).

(2) From the fuel tank to the fuel inlet connection on the engine must be:

(i) “USCG Type A1”; or

(ii) “USCG Type B1” if no more than five ounces of fuel is discharged in 2 1/2 minutes when:

(A) The hose is severed at the point where maximum drainage of fuel would occur,

(B) The boat is in its static floating position, and

(C) The fuel system is filled to the capacity marked on the tank label under §183.514(b)(3).

(c) Each hose must be secured by:

(1) A swaged sleeve;

(2) A sleeve and threaded insert; or

(3) A hose clamp.

(d) The inside diameter of a hose must not exceed the actual minor outside diameter of the connecting spud, pipe, or fitting by more than the distance shown in Table 8.


Table 8



If minor outside diameter of the The inside diameter of the
connecting spud, pipe, or fitting is_ hose must not exceed the
minor outside diameter of
the connecting spud, pipe,
or hose fitting by more
than the following
distance:
Less than \3/8\ in........................ 0.020 in.
\3/8\ in. to 1 in......................... 0.035 in.
Greater than 1 in......................... 0.065 in.



[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 85–098, 52 FR 19728, May 27, 1987]

§ 183.560 Hose clamps: Installation.
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Each hose clamp on a hose from the fuel tank to the fuel inlet connection on the engine, a hose between the fuel pump and the carburetor, or a vent line must:

(a) Be used with hose designed for clamps;

(b) [Reserved]

(c) Be beyond the bead, flare, or over the serrations of the mating spud, pipe, or hose fitting; and

(d) Not depend solely on the spring tension of the clamp for compressive force.

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55737, Dec. 15, 1983]

§ 183.562 Metallic fuel lines.
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(a) Each metallic fuel line that is mounted to the boat structure must be connected to the engine by a flexible fuel line.

(b) Each metallic fuel line must be attached to the boat's structure within four inches of its connection to a flexible fuel line.

§ 183.564 Fuel tank fill system.
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(a) Each fuel fill opening must be located so that a gasoline overflow of up to five gallons per minute for at least five seconds will not enter the boat when the boat is in its static floating position.

(b) Each hose in the tank fill system must be secured to a pipe, spud, or hose fitting by:

(1) A swaged sleeve;

(2) A sleeve and threaded insert; or

(3) Two adjacent metallic hose clamps that do not depend solely on the spring tension of the clamps for compressive force.

(c) Each hose clamp in the tank fill system must be used with a hose designed for clamps.

(d) Hose clamps used in the tank fill system must:

(1) Have a minimum nominal band width of at least one-half inch; and

(2) Be over the hose and the spud, pipe, or hose fitting.

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55737, Dec. 15, 1983]

§ 183.566 Fuel pumps: Placement.
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Each fuel pump must be on the engine it serves or within 12 inches of the engine, unless it is a fuel pump used to transfer fuel between tanks.

§ 183.568 Anti-siphon protection.
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Each fuel line from the fuel tank to the fuel inlet connection on the carburetor must:

(a) Be above the level of the tank top; or

(b) Have an anti-siphon device or an electrically operated fuel stop valve:

(1) At the tank withdrawal fitting; or

(2) Installed so the line from the fuel tank is above the top of the tank; or

(c) Provided that the fuel tank top is below the level of the carburetor inlet, be metallic fuel lines meeting the construction requirements of §183.538 or “USCG Type A1” hose, with one or two manual shutoff valves installed as follows:

(1) Directly at the fuel tank connection arranged to be readily accessible for operation from outside of the compartment, and

(2) If the length of fuel line from the tank outlet to the engine inlet is greater than 12 feet, a manual shutoff valve shall be installed at the fuel inlet connection to the engine.

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55737, Dec. 15, 1983; CGD 85–098, 52 FR 19729, May 27, 1987]

§ 183.570 Fuel filters and strainers: Installation.
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Each fuel filter and strainer must be supported on the engine or boat structure independent from its fuel line connections, unless the fuel filter or strainer is inside a fuel tank.

§ 183.572 Grounding.
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Each metallic component of the fuel fill system and fuel tank which is in contact with fuel must be statically grounded so that the resistance between the ground and each metallic component of the fuel fill system and fuel tank is less than 100 ohms.

Tests
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§ 183.580 Static pressure test for fuel tanks.
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A fuel tank is tested by performing the following procedures in the following order:

(a) Fill the tank with air or inert gas to the pressure marked on the tank label under §183.514(b)(5).

(b) Examine each tank fitting and seam for leaks using a leak detection method other than the pressure drop method.

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by CGD 81–092, 48 FR 55737, Dec. 15, 1983]

§ 183.584 Shock test.
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A fuel tank is tested by performing the following procedures in the following order:

(a) Perform the static pressure test under §183.580.

(b) If the tank is non-metallic, fill it to capacity with a gasoline that has at least a 50 percent aromatic content. Keep the fuel in the tank at 21 °C or higher for 30 days prior to testing.

(c) Mount the tank to the platform of an impact test machine.

(d) Fill the tank to capacity with water.

(e) Apply one of the following accelerations within three inches of the center of the horizontal mounting surface of the tank. The duration of each vertical acceleration pulse is measured at the base of the shock envelope.

(1) If the tank is not labeled under §183.514(b)(8) for installation aft of the half length of the boat, apply 1000 cycles of 25g vertical accelerations at a rate of 80 cycles or less per minute. The duration of the acceleration pulse must be between 6 and 14 milliseconds.

(2) If the tank is manufactured for installation with its center of gravity aft of the half length of the boat, apply 1000 cycles of 15g vertical accelerations at a rate of 80 cycles or less per minute. The duration of the shock pulse must be between 6 and 14 milliseconds.

(f) Perform the static pressure test under §183.580.

[CGD 74–209, 42 FR 5950, Jan. 31, 1977, as amended by USCG–1999–5832, 64 FR 34716, June 29, 1999]

§ 183.586 Pressure impulse test.
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A fuel tank is tested by performing the following procedures in the following order:

(a) Perform the static pressure test under §183.580.

(b) If the tank is non-metallic, fill it to capacity with a gasoline that has at least a 50 percent aromatic content. Keep the fuel in the tank at 21 °C or higher for 30 days prior to testing.

(c) Mount the tank on a test platform.

(d) Fill the tank to capacity with water.

(e) Cap and seal each opening in the tank.

(f) Apply 25,000 cycles of pressure impulse at the rate of no more than 15 impulses per minute varying from zero to three PSIG to zero inside the tank top from a regulated source of air, inert gas, or water.

(g) Perform the static pressure test under §183.580.

§ 183.588 Slosh test.
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A fuel tank is tested by performing the following procedures in the following order:

(a) Perform the static pressure test under §183.580.

(b) Perform the pressure impulse test under §183.586. (continued)