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Fig 4-3 – [[File:EngineVentilationShaft.jpg|thumb|left|260px|Engine ventilation shaft extending to the sole of the engine room may prevent water intake in a capsize]]
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= Hull Openings & Closures =
Water and fuel intakes should be at least 4-in off the deck to prevent ingress of dirt. Openings for the engine room ventilation should be at least 36-in off the deck. (Air intakes on the side of the hull are susceptible to letting water in.) Extend the intakes down close to the engine room floor. In the event of capsizing, this will keep the inside opening above the waterline so that water doesn’t siphon in. The air intake should have a shutter to cut off air in case of an engine room fire. Fit all vents, dorades and other openings with metal rodent screens.
== Doors ==
The other main opening is for the propeller shaft. Traditionally, ships have used a stuffing box to seal the opening around the shaft. This is literally a box stuffed with marine grease. Stuffing boxes always leak a bit into the bilge. They’re fitted with a grease nipple and, every so often, you stuff them up. More modern approaches exist in the form of seals. They tend to wear more on the shaft. A few can be replaced without removing the shaft.
== References == [[Category:HullFittingsHullGeneral]]