4444
Helm Control Systems
The engine control and key pad typically have in-
tegrated switches and indicator lights which allow
the operator to control all aspects of the boat’s
propulsion system. LED lights on the control in-
dicate that the control is activated and the engine
can be started.
The most common features activated or
monitored by the keypad are:
• Starter lockout, which prevents the engine
from being started in gear.
• Gear lockout, which allows the engine RPM to
be advanced in neutral safely.
• Battery voltage warning indicator that warns
the operator of high or low voltage supplied
to the system (audible alarm).
• Trolling feature that allows the operator
to increase the engine speed in 50 RPM
increments while operating at trolling speeds
between 600 - 1000 RPM.
These features and others not mentioned require
specic procedures to activate and operate them
properly. Some of the procedures and features are
unique to the engine and other options installed on
your boat. It is essential that you read the owner’s
manual for the controls and be completely familiar
with their operation before using your boat.
ALWAYS RETURN THE ENGINE THROTTLE LEVER TO THE
EXTREME LOW SPEED POSITION BEFORE SHIFTING.
NEVER SHIFT THE UNIT WHILE ENGINE SPEED IS ABOVE
IDLE RPM.
4.3 Neutral Safety Switch
Every control system has a neutral safety switch
incorporated into it. This device prohibits the en-
gine from being started while the shift lever is in
any position other than the neutral position. If
the engine will not start, slight movement of the
shift lever may be necessary to locate the neutral
position and disengage the safety cutout switch.
Control or cable adjustments may be required to
correct this condition should it persist. See your
dealer for necessary control and/or cable adjust-
ments.
The neutral safety switch should be tested periodi-
cally to ensure that it is operating properly. To test
the neutral safety switch, make sure the engine is
tilted down and move the shift lever to the forward
position. Make sure the control lever is not
advanced past the idle position. Turn the igni-
tion key to the start position just long enough to
briey engage the starter for the engine. Do not
hold the key in the start position long enough to
start the engine. The starter should not engage.
Repeat this test with the shift lever in reverse
and the engine throttle at idle. Again, the starter
should not engage. If the starter engages with
the shift control in any position other than the
neutral position, then the neutral safety switch is
not functioning properly and you should contact
your dealer and have the neutral safety switch
repaired before using your boat. If the engine
starts in gear during this test, immediately move
the control lever to the neutral position.
Notice:
Some outboard control systems are equipped
with a computer controlled start feature that
will keep the starter engaged until the engine
starts if the neutral safety switch fails and al-
lows the starter to engage.
IN SOME SITUATIONS, IT MAY BE POSSIBLE TO
ACCIDENTALLY START THE ENGINE IN GEAR WITH
THE THROTTLE ABOVE IDLE IF THE NEUTRAL SAFETY
SWITCH IS NOT OPERATING PROPERLY. THIS WOULD
CAUSE THE BOAT TO ACCELERATE UNEXPECTEDLY IN
FORWARD OR REVERSE AND COULD RESULT IN LOSS
OF CONTROL, DAMAGE TO THE BOAT OR INJURY TO
PASSENGERS. ALWAYS TEST THE NEUTRAL SAFETY
SWITCH PERIODICALLY AND CORRECT ANY PROBLEMS
BEFORE USING THE BOAT.
4.4 Engine Power Tilt & Trim
All outboard engines have a tilt and trim feature.
Most outboard engines a have tilt/trim switch
built into the engine shift and throttle control that
allows the operator to control the position of the
outboard from the helm. The switch on the control
lever grip activates the tilt/trim for the engine.
Moving the outboard closer to the boat transom is
called trimming “in” or “down.” Moving the out-
board further away from the boat transom is called
trimming “out” or “up.” In most cases, the boat
will run best with the outboard adjusted so the
hull will run at a 3 to 5 degree angle to the water.
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