Complete Marine Vessel Overhaul & Gearbox Alignment
In 2018, Hickman Engineering was tasked with a huge job, bringing the Briggs Marine owned vessel, the MV Ross Point, back to the water. We executed a complete marine vessel overhaul, stripping the vessel from top to bottom to restore its full seaworthy status and ensure it met strict operational standards.
Structural Hull Repairs & Bespoke Fabrication
The project started with a complete internal and external component removal, preparing the vessel for extensive shot blasting. Our fabrication division took on critical hull plate repairs to the bow and the forward mooring post, supplied and mounted new hull anodes, and installed a brand-new fender. To ensure safety and functionality, our team also designed and fabricated bespoke deck access doors, robust safety rails, and a custom wheelhouse door, before finally painting the vessel in marine-grade company colours.
Complex Gearbox Alignment & Mechanical Refit
A core challenge of this major refit was the installation and alignment of the engine and gearbox to the inboard propeller flange. We successfully installed the propulsion units alongside fitting a new propeller and shaft, complete with replacement bushes and gland seals. The vessel’s steering mechanism received a complete overhaul, including the quadrant control cylinder, helm, and rudder shaft. Additionally, our engineers drained and cleaned the entire fuel system and flushed all raw water pipework and coolers, expertly reassembling the systems with high-quality new hosing.
Electrical Rewiring, Safety Systems & Sea Trials
To fully modernise the MV Ross Point, we performed a complete electrical rewire, carefully redesigning and upgrading the system utilising marine grade components. Our team also designed and installed new toilet and kitchenette facilities to accommodate the crew, and fabricated a fully certificated davit arm. For crucial vessel safety, we installed and certificated a state-of-the-art fire suppression system. Following these extensive upgrades, Hickman Engineering proudly assisted the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) with their final inspection and conducted successful sea trials, ensuring the vessel was perfectly restored and ready for service.
