How to Use a Kill Switch Key

Kill switch keys serve two purposes on marine engines. One, they allow the engine to be shut off without removing the ignition key, often by being pulled out with a lanyard. Should a boater be thrown overboard, he can kill the engine by pulling a lanyard attaching his body to the kill switch key to stop the boat and allow reboarding. Kill switch keys are also an anti-theft device. When the key is removed from the engine, the engine cannot be started. Learning to use a kill switch key for either purpose is easy.

Things You'll Need

  • Engine manual
  • Lanyard
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Instructions

    • 1

      Look in the engine manual to find the location of the kill switch if it is not easily found. Typically, the switch will be clearly labeled and located near the ignition.

    • 2

      Attach a lanyard to the kill switch key. Use a lanyard that has a clip on the end.

    • 3

      Insert the key into the kill switch. Clip the lanyard to the engine to prevent the key from falling overboard during an emergency or hook it to your wrist or belt in case you are thrown overboard. Alternately, use a lanyard long enough to run from the engine to the pilot house (making sure it will not catch on anything). This allows the key to be pulled out, in case of emergency, without you having to leave the steering.

    • 4

      Turn the key to the "On" or "Run" position. The engine can now be started with the ignition key.

    • 5

      Turn the key to the "Off" or "Stop" position to shut down the engine. Remove the key.