outboard safety lead

[andyadam]

Hi,
i've seen a few videos now of outboards twisting off and being lost, (not to mention the danger) I know it won't lesson the risk factor to myself or the sib but how exactly should i fit a safety lead to the outboard, it's a Mariner outboard-any recommended fixing point ?

Thanks
Andy

[mikew4]

Well if you the clamps up tight enough, then check them whilst underway, they wont fall off.

If you need a security leash / chain, clip or tie a rope / chain to a suitable point on the engine, and run to a D-ring on the boat, or fit a u-bolt to the transom and tie off/clip to that.

[willk]

Most small SIBs have a tie off point on the inside of the mounting plate. The engine likely has an eye near the bolts - just use a short length of line to lash the two together or you can work something fancier up with a line and clip. All it has to do is stop the engine clamps rising if they loosen. As mike says - re-tighten the bolts when you are afloat with the engine down, it's amazing how much play they hide ashore, just like a horse holding it's breath when you stick a saddle on it!

It's a legitimate concern BTW - I know two individuals who lost their outboards (for ever).

[Starovich]

You can also add a drop nose pin though the bolt holes, or a bolt with a wing nut. to allow a quick alternative to catching it once it has come off, ensure you seal the hole inside to stop any water ingress if you do.

Adding a carbine clip between the holes in the winding levers Turn them till the are tight and facing inwards can also assist stopping any un-winding.

[HDAV]

Originally Posted by Starovich

Adding a carbine clip between the holes in the winding levers Turn them till the are tight and facing inwards can also assist stopping any un-winding.

A thick cable tie can be used and has the advantage of not rattling or rusting, disadvantage is that they are disposable probably need cutting off after each trip.