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Last Updated on September 5, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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How to Reset the Kill Switch on a Boat?
Are you struggling to reset the kill switch on your boat but don’t want to call a mechanic? Resetting the kill switch on a boat is a crucial safety procedure that all boat owners should be familiar with.
- Identify the boat kill switch: locate it near the ignition switch.
- Check kill switch lanyard: ensure it’s untangled and unbroken.
- Reset kill switch: push back or flip to the original.
- Test engine: turn on the ignition and check for start.
- Ensure boat safety with regular maintenance checks.
Have you got yourself in a bit of a pickle with your boat’s kill switch? There’s no need to walk the plank just yet. Resetting the kill switch is more straightforward than finding a pirate’s buried treasure.
The kill switch, or as I like to call it, the “I’d rather not sink today” button, is a safety device on your vessel. If your boat starts acting like a rebellious teenager and refuses to cooperate, or you’ve accidentally triggered it, you can reset the kill switch.
Just reattach the lanyard – presto! It’s smoother sailing from here on out. So remember, when the going gets tough, the tough reset their boat kill switch!
Well, you’re at the right place. In this post, I’ll be going into detail about kill switches. We’ll discuss how kill switches function, how to reset the kill switch on boats, and other things to remember when using kill switches.
What is a Kill Switch?
Ahoy, mates! Have you ever heard of a boat kill switch? It’s not some James Bond gadget, but it’s essential nonetheless.
This little device is like a boat’s guardian angel, stepping in to stop the engine if the captain goes overboard or ends up in a sticky situation. Imagine it as a big red button saying, “Hold up there, buddy!”
And how do you get back on your merry maritime way? Reset the kill switch, and voila! Your boat is back in business. So remember, a kill switch is not just a fancy boat accessory; it’s a lifesaver.
The Kill Switch is a preventive device that shuts down your boat’s engine if the helmsperson is hurled out of their seat.
One end of the cord or plastic wire connects to your boat’s dashboard or the kill switch in the engine. You can attach the other end to the helmsperson’s life vest.
The cord is pulled along if the helmsperson is thrown out of their seats. As the cord pulls, it also immediately kills the engine, stopping the boat from propelling out of control.
How Does a Kill Switch Work?
Think of the boat’s ignition system as a circuit. As long as the Kill Switch is in place, the circuit will remain complete, and your engine will work fine.
However, when the Kill Switch is removed, the circuit becomes incomplete. Therefore, the engine stops running until the circuit is connected again.
How to Use a Kill Switch?
Simply connect the Kill Switch cord to your boat. The end of the cord that connects to your boat can vary depending on the model of your boat. Usually, most of them have a button where you can clip the cord.
The next step is to connect the cord to yourself. It’s best to clip the cord around your thigh as it is securely in place and doesn’t get in the way of your steering.
And that’s all there is to it.
How to Reset Kill Switch on Boat?
Keeping with the circuit analogy, the circuit must be completed for your engine to start running again. But, once a Kill Switch has been set off, how does one rest it?
Well, there are two ways to go about this.
Method One: Clipping the Kill Switch Back into Place
The first one is quite simple. You need to reconnect the Kill Switch to its place on the dashboard.
The place where you connect your kill switch can vary depending on the type of engine you have; usually, most of them have a button. You can clip the end of your Kill Switch cord to it, and your engine should start running again.
Method Two: Checking the Boatside Harness
You may need to look at the boat side harness if the engine still isn’t working. The boat-side harness connects your boat’s steering system to the engine.
You can find the boat side harness inside the engine. Usually, it’s a thick black wire. Disconnect it from the engine harness and connect it to a remote starter to test if there are any issues.
If the engine starts running, it means there’s an issue with the boat side harness, and you may need to get it replaced.
On the other hand, if the engine still isn’t working, the kill wire might need checking. At this point, I suggest you call a professional to look at the issue.
Things to Remember When Using a Kill Switch
KILL SWITCH. It sounds menacing, right? But don’t worry, it’s not as ominous as it sounds. The boat kill switch is there to stop the engine in an emergency.
It’s like an overprotective parent, always ready to shut down the fun if things get a little too wild. And if you’re wondering how to reset the kill switch, it’s as easy as a piece of cake.
To ensure you are using your Kill Switch properly, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Test Your Kill Switch
One of the most important things to do is test your Kill Switch to see if it works properly. All you need to do is place the Kill Switch cord correctly and start the engine.
After a few minutes, tug at the Kill Switch cord to remove it from its place. Your engine should stop working when the Kill Switch is out of place. This means your Kill Switch is working perfectly.
Always Keep a Spare Kill Switch Cord
It would be best to keep a spare Kill Switch cord for emergencies.
If the steer’s person somehow goes overboard, they will take the cord with them. You may need to start the boat again to rescue them. In situations like these, a spare cord will be handy.
Alternatively, you may also break or lose your cord. You may end up stranded in the middle of the sea or lake if you don’t have a spare.
It’s always best to prepare yourself for emergencies.
Taking Care of the Kill Switch Cord
Taking care of the Kill Switch Cord does not require much effort. There are just a few things you need to be mindful of.
The first thing is to keep your cord protected from moisture and UV light. I would suggest keeping it safe inside your boat’s dashboard when not in use.
Also, keep an eye on the color of your Kill Switch cord. When under UV light, it tends to go from red to orange. So, if you notice yours turning slightly orange, it’s time you get a new one.
In addition, you need to ensure that the cord maintains its elasticity and doesn’t go slack. The reason why this is important is that the elasticity ensures the cord remains secure around you.
If the cord is slack, it may fall off, and in worse-case scenarios, it won’t function.
Are any Legal or Safety Certifications Required to Reset or Modify the Kill Switch Mechanism on a Boat?
Depending on the jurisdiction and the extent of the modifications, regulations might govern who can legally reset or modify the kill switch mechanism on a boat.
Generally, simple resets, per the manufacturer’s instructions, do not require special certifications.
However, significant modifications to the kill switch system might require inspection or approval from a certified marine mechanic or adherence to specific maritime safety standards.
Can Resetting a Boat’s Kill Switch Affect its Electronic Settings or Saved Configurations?
In most cases, resetting the kill switch should not affect the boat’s electronic settings or saved configurations. The kill switch is a safety feature designed to stop the engine in emergencies.
However, if the boat has a highly integrated system where the kill switch is tied into the electronic management system, there could be instances where a reset might necessitate recalibration or reconfirmation of settings.
This video has been included for its clarification of the topic matter. Credit goes to
Len’s Cove Lessons in Boating
Final Words
Making sure the Kill Switch is used appropriately is very important for everyone’s safety on the board.
Understanding how to reset the kill switch on a boat is crucial for ensuring the overall safety and functionality of the vessel.
The boat kill switch, usually found near the ignition switch, is a safety mechanism designed to shut off the engine in an emergency. First, to reset this switch, locate it and then examine the kill switch lanyard to ensure it’s not tangled or broken.
If everything appears normal, push back or flip the kill switch to its original position. Once the kill switch has been reset, it’s time to test the engine. Turn on the ignition and check that the engine starts without any issues.
Regular maintenance checks are fundamental to boat safety, so make resetting the kill switch part of your routine check. You can ensure smooth sailing and safe voyages by following these steps to reset the kill switch on a boat.
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