kill switch question

[stinger1]

i recently replaced the ignition switch on my boat. in the process i removed the kill switch and did not put it back on. i am aware of the reasoning behind it but i never operate the motor when i am not sitting in the drivers seat and hands on the wheel. should i reconsider and reinstall the kill switch. <br /><br />in a recent thread i read some negative coments on kill swithes and problems people have had with them.<br /><br />is it standard equipment on all boats.<br />i dont tournament fish so i am not concerned with their safety requirements.<br /><br />but i would take heed of the advice offered by some of you old salts.

 

[Walter]

Re: kill switch question

The kill switch works only when attached to the driver. Personally, I think they're a wonderful safety device. However, I'd be a liar if I were to say I use mine faithfully. The truth is though...you don't have to be rocketing down the creek at 75 mph to get tossed out of a boat. Anytime is a good time to use one...but I think the best time is when you're boating alone. Nothing would suck worse than swimming after your boat as she putt-putts "merrily down the stream".<br /><br />Walt

 

[Javlin85]

Re: kill switch question

Or you fall out of the boat and it spins in circles at WOT with you in the middle of the circle. My brother-in-law lost a friend this spring because of that. Attach the kill switch to yourself when running WOT.

 

[rwise]

Re: kill switch question

Here everone tells me that they are mandatory! You get a fine if caught without one. Just added the kill switch to mine, and I do use it when on open water, but when in the out back.........well you know.

 

[hondon]

Re: kill switch question

Most bassfishing tournaments require you to have them in my area.In general ,they are no more a problem than any other ignition component.But as stated ,only work if you use them.I use mine all the time?RIGHT.I don't know about regs. in your state ,but I do know that at least one sterndrive manufacturer doesn't include lanyard kill switches on their product.Outboards are a different story.They all have 'em

 

[Beernutz]

Re: kill switch question

A few years ago, I was alone in my 17' Boston Whaler, trolling 30 miles offshore. I was rigging some lines, when a larger than average swell caught me broadside and lifted the boat. I caught the console rail with my fingertips as I was headed overboard, with both ends of the kill switch lanyard safely attached to the key. I can't swim at 5-7 knots.<br /><br />Made a believer outa me! Still have nightmares about it. How much excitement can you stand?