Section 2 • General Boat Arrangement
C.Ignition Shutdown Switch
Figure 2.7.1 shows the ignition shutdown switch. The purpose of the switch is to shut down the engine if the operator unintentionally leaves the helm station. Situations in which this could occur are rough water, bad weather and other adverse boating conditions. In these situations, the safety of the boat and its passengers is enhanced by using the ignition shutdown switch, since the boat will stop when the operator can no longer control the boat.
However, unexpected engine shutdown may result in unintentional harm. For example, a passenger may lose balance and fall, or control could be lost during docking. No specific guidelines can be given for switch use. The ultimate decision of when to use an ignition shutdown switch rests with the operator or owner.
When the switch is used, the operator must securely clip the lanyard to their belt or clothing so that if the operator falls overboard or into the boat, the switch is activated and the engine shuts down.
To reset ignition shutdown switch after it has been activated, simply reinstall the switch clip above the
D.Engine Alarm System
Ignition Shutdown Switch
(Fig 2.7.1) Ignition
Shutdown
Switch
Clips to Switch
Clips to You
The Engine Operator's Manual will tell you if your engine is equipped with an audible alarm and how to use it.
The alarm indicates a problem with engine water temperature, oil pressure and/or stern drive oil level.
8.Important Gauges
!CAUTION
Always check oil pressure and water gauges before leaving dock and while underway, even if your engine has an alarm.
Shut down engine immediately if gauges are not in normal ranges, or alarm sounds.
Do not restart engine until problems are corrected.
A.Tachometer and Hour Meter
The tachometer (see Figure 2.7.2) indicates the revolutions per minute (RPM) of the engine (it does not indicate the speed of the boat). Your Engine Operator's Manual indicates the maximum full throttle RPM at which your engine should operate. This must not be exceeded or serious engine damage will occur. The tachometer should also be used to determine the most comfortable and economical cruising RPM.
The hour meter measures cumulative hours of operating time on the engine. Use the hour meter to keep a careful log of when to maintain the engine as well as to estimate fuel consumption. Do not leave ignition key in the "ON" position with engine off, because the hour meter will continue to run, even though the engine is not operating.
Typical Tachometer with hour meter
(Fig 2.7.2)
342 Performance® | 2.7 |