CRITICAL SPARE PARTS & TOOLS missing on board.

1. Incident Summary

During the start-up of the main engine while alongside in the Port of Grimsby, UK, a cooling water leak was identified on one of the engine cylinders.

Upon inspection, the Chief Engineer determined that the required spare gaskets were not available on board. Additionally, the dedicated tool required for removing the cylinder head was found to be defective and unserviceable.

Due to the absence of essential spare parts and functional tooling, an external repair company had to be contracted to carry out the necessary repairs.

It is noted that this incident occurred while the vessel was safely alongside in port. Had the same failure occurred during navigation, it could have resulted in significant operational disruption and potential safety risks.

2. Identified Issues

The following deficiencies were identified:

• Absence of essential spare parts (cylinder head gasket).

• Defective or unserviceable specialized maintenance tools.

• Insufficient verification of readiness to perform critical engine repairs.

3. Required Corrective Measures

All vessels in the HLB fleet are instructed to implement the following measures with immediate effect:

3.1 Spare Parts Verification

• Conduct an immediate inventory check of all critical main engine spare parts, including but not limited to:

  • Cylinder head gaskets

  • Cylinder liner sealing components

  • Fuel valve gaskets and seals

  • Other manufacturer-recommended critical spares

• Verify that minimum spare quantities meet PMS/ISM and manufacturer requirements.

• Report any shortages to the Technical Department without delay and raise requisitions where necessary.

3.2 Special Tools Inspection

• Verify that all dedicated main engine tools (e.g., cylinder head lifting gear, hydraulic tools, special spanners, extractor tools) are available, complete, and in good working condition.

• Conduct functional checks of specialized equipment.

• Arrange repair or replacement of any defective tools immediately.

3.3 Planned Maintenance System (PMS) Review

• Ensure that PMS includes periodic checks for:

  • Critical spare availability

  • Condition and availability of special tools

• Update records accordingly.

3.4 Pre-Departure Engineering Readiness

• Prior to departure from port, engineering teams should confirm readiness to address common main engine failures, including cylinder head removal and gasket replacement.

4. Preventive Actions

Masters and Chief Engineers are reminded that the availability of critical spare parts and specialized tools is essential for maintaining operational safety and vessel reliability.

Regular verification of spares and tools should form part of routine onboard management and safety checks.

5. Compliance

Chief Engineers are requested to:

• Complete the verification of spare parts and tools within 7 days of receipt of this circular.

• Report confirmation of compliance to the HLB Office.