locking the engine

[Katch]

I'm able to secure my 20hp Evinrude to my RIB transome, but how do you keep someone from taking the whole boat from a dock. I don't plan on leaving it for an extended period of time, but I'm concerned when I dock at a restaurant for lunch. Are ignition keys normally installed on these small outboards, or would it be best to just get a long cable lock for the entire boat? I hate the feeling that someone can just jump onboard, pull the starter cable, and take off.

Thanks,
Steve

 

[Mr. Asa]

Re: locking the engine

A cable might work, but there are numerous things you could do to ensure no one is going to run off with your boat, it just depends on how involved you want to be.
You could mechanically disable the engine simply enough.

 

[Sea Rider]

Re: locking the engine

You can hire a boat guard, have lunch delivered to you rib or install a key/switch at front lower pan disabling ground wire from Ignition Coil or CD unit. Wrap both contacts well as to avoid placing a jumper wire. Hope no high end tech mechanic & pirate is around, those know it all are the worst of all.

Happy Boating

 

[Katch]

Re: locking the engine

I like the key idea, and will probably do that in the future; but I suppose someone could still just paddle off using the oars. In the mean time, I ordered a 15 foot cable lock. Thanks everyone.

 

[Sea Rider]

Re: locking the engine

Better go for the combination of 2, cable is very easy to cut like cheese if pirate happens to have the right tool, the right time and be at the right place...

Happy Boating

 

[Katch]

Re: locking the engine

Out around the big cities, nobody would leave a bicycle sitting out in the open where anyone could walk up and take it. I would think the same goes for an outboard motor on a RIB. Sure, someone with bolt cutters could come by and cut the cable; but how many people (mostly teenage punks) walk around with bolt cutters?