In cases where both the pinion and gear teeth of the main reduction gear have been slightly indented by foreign material, what action should you take?
Official USCG Answer & Rule Citation
Correct Answer: Option A — Both the pinion and gear should be relieved of all raised metal around the indentation.
Raised metal around an indentation creates high spots that cause localized stress concentrations and premature gear failure. Relieving this metal restores proper tooth profile and prevents interference. This standard maintenance practice ensures smooth load distribution across the gear mesh, maintaining the integrity of the main reduction gear assembly.
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