Boat switch panel and mystery button

[vetting]

The boat is a 1989 Cobia 265fc. On the switch panel with the ignition, blower, and horn there is a mystery button that Im not sure what it does. The button isnt fused and seems to have a constant 12v to it. I have to take some of the boat apart in order to trace the wires going to it, but checking to see if anyone has idea what it is before I get that far. I want to replace the panel and move all of the buttons and switches to the bottom so I can install a Raymarine autopilot control on the top half of the panel in order to get the unit off of the dash. So my next question would be, what type of switch setup can I put in order to save some more space? I assume they still have to be fused switches? Thank you in advance for your help.

 

[H20Rat]

That isn't factory, so no way for any one to tell you definitively. Start tracing wires. Although if you have never used it, probably don't need it!

 

[vetting]

It does match all of the factory buttons and design. I guess it could have been a blank space that someone added something to.

 

[Silvertip]

That mystery button looks like it has a groove in it near the outer end which would tell me that it was the lanyard attachment for the man overboard feature.

 

[vetting]

That mystery button looks like it has a groove in it near the outer end which would tell me that it was the lanyard attachment for the man overboard feature.

Ah yeah that would make sense. So how does it actually work since its measuring 12v across the terminals as is right now? And what is the best way to get rid of it? Is it just a matter of splicing the wires together?

 

[Silvertip]

The safety lanyard has a clip at the end. The switch pulls out, you insert the clip which opens the switch (or closes it depending on what type of engine ignition you have) and therefore allows the engine to run. If you yank the lanyard (as in being tossed overboard) the lanyard pulls the clip and you therefore are prevented from being run over by your own boat. Make sure it works and do not omit it. It is a valuable safety feature.

 

[topgun3690]

Get a new kill switch if you have too.....could save your passengers and your life if thrown OB.

 

[roscoe]

what type of switch setup can I put in order to save some more space?

Putting a separate fuse panel under the console will save space and allow a variety of switch panels to be used.

iBoats store has lots and GreatLakesSkipper has several hundred surplus OEM panels to choose from ranging from $20 to $400.

 

[Bt Doctur]

If the motor now runs, remove 1 wire and see if it still runs. If No ,its a man overboard safety switch that has a red lanyard on it. Usually uses a purple ign feed wire