Suzuki 2.5HP engine safety kill lanyard alternative

[scross]

Just picked our 2.5HP Suzuki outboard from its biennial tune up today. When I dropped it off I forgot to include the safety lanyard. Without that safety lanyard in place the engine won’t start of course. The marine shop had a simple and elegant solution - a large sized releasable zip tie placed and tightened where the lanyard clip normally goes.
We carry all sizes of zip ties (aka cable ties) in our onboard electrical spares box. So, if we ever lose that safety lanyard I now know how to still start the dinghy motor! Not as safe as the safety lanyard of course but would work in an emergency.

 

[Martin610]

I have the 2.5HP Suzuki as well. I keep the lanyard key on some thin bungee cord I got at West Marine. When leaving the dingy on a beach or whatever I can take the key and put the lanyard on my wrist. Helps ensure the dingy will be there when I return.

I also bought a spare key at West Marine that I keep aboard Venture as a backup.

-martin610

 

[SeaCabin]

Our Journey….Great idea! Thanks.

 

[FlyMeAway]

While this is an excellent solution for a 2.5hp in a pinch, just remember that if your engine is 3hp or above you can get a hefty fine for doing this. You put yourself at the mercy of USCG and LLE and how friendly they're feeling regarding tickets that day 🙂