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Engine Use ~
The engine operating and maintenance manual provided with your boat describes pre-start and starting procedures.
Modern engines are designed to be started in a particular way. Read the starting procedure for your engine carefully prior
to attempting operation.
Special Note: The following advantages and disadvantages of a Lanyard Stop Switch should be considered
before electing to use such a switch.
Advantages
The purpose of a Lanyard Stop Switch is to stop the engine when the operator leaves the control station, either
accidentally by falling in the boat or by being ejected overboard. This is most likely in certain types of boats such as low
sided models or high performance boats. And / or as a result of poor operating practices such as sitting on the back of the
seat or standing at planing speeds, operating at high speeds in shallow or obstacle infested waters, drinking and driving,
or daring high speed boat manoeuvres.
Disadvantages
Inadvertent activation of the switch is also a possibility. This could cause any or all of the following potentially hazardous
situations:
1. Loss of balance and falling forward of unstable boat passengers – particularly in low bow rider style boats.
2. Loss of power and directional control in heavy seas, strong current or high winds.
3. Loss of control when docking.
WARNING
As we cannot possibly know of and advise the boating public of all conceivable boat/power package types and/or poor
operating practices, the final decision of whether or not to use a Lanyard Stop Switch rests with you, the owner/driver. It is
recommended that the lanyard be attached to the driver/ operator when ever the engine is in operation.
Engine Starting ~
1. DO NOT continuously operate the starter for more than 15 seconds at a time.
2. On boats so equipped, check the oil pressure, voltmetre and temperature gauges immediately after the engine
starts. Make a visual check to ensure a strong jet of water is squirting from the engine tell tail. Lack of water here
may indicate a faulty impeller or a block in the tell tail or water intake. Try clearing the outlet with a suitable piece
of wire before proceeding, or contact your nearest dealer.
Before You Leave ~
Providing you have not encountered any problems, you are almost ready to go. (If you did encounter problems, do not
attempt to operate your boat until they are corrected). Before you leave, perform the following steps:
1. Check the operation of equipment such as bilge pumps, running lights, radios, etc. Check the steering. Turn
the steering wheel to a complete lock, clockwise and anti-clockwise, to ensure that there is free movement.
2. Instruct passengers in the use and location of flotation devices.
3. Obtain a reliable weather forecast and plan accordingly for everyone’s comfort and safety.
4. Notify a responsible friend or relative of your intended path. Upon your return or a change in your cruise
schedule, notify that person again to avoid unnecessary concern.
5. Ensure everyone is seated (in or on a seat).
6. Be certain any operator has not been or is not consuming alcoholic beverages / or non prescribed drugs.
With all pre-departure checks now completed, you are ready to leave the dock.
