Kill switch/ Overtemp rewire.

[rlb9844]

I am thinking of rewiring my overtemp sensors to kill the motor if it ever overheats. Does this sound like a good idea or a bad idea. Any opinions welcome.

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: Kill switch/ Overtemp rewire.

Not needed. The overheat alarm will go off early enough to prevent damage to the motor. Just check it once in a while to be sure its working properly.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Kill switch/ Overtemp rewire.

The bad news is that the motor might overheat and kill itself, in the middle of a nasty bit of water. it also will not restart while still hot which could be a while.

A lot of boats overheat when at high throttle settings, but run fine at lower setings. In that scenario, the overheat alarm advises you of a potential overeat, you have the option of slowing down, yet still making headway, while the motor cools off.

 

[rlb9844]

Re: Kill switch/ Overtemp rewire.

I didn't think of it that way. OK thanks alot.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Kill switch/ Overtemp rewire.

also, an unexpected "kill" can be right abrupt and could injure you or passengers, cause loose equipment to shift, or worse, result in sudden and irreversable loss of beer.
You don't want it to occur if you are navigating a tricky area--coming into an inlet, crossing a freighter or barge, etc. and boats being what they are, your new device could malfunction and activate when not needed for the motor, but at a bad time. Just consider why a "kill" would be a bad idea in a car, too. Especially a home-made one.

 

[sschefer]

Re: Kill switch/ Overtemp rewire.

I agree with Chris, just ask any skipper whose been forced into limp mode in heavy seas. It will scare the h e double toothpicks out of you. Makes you really think hard about where that Sea Anchor is stowed.

A better option is to buy a louder alarm buzzer. You can get them at Radio Shack in different DB levels.

 

[Bass Buster One]

Re: Kill switch/ Overtemp rewire.

Not trying to butt in on the thread here, but I like Bill's advice. Anyone know how to check/test the alarm on a 1987 Merc. V6 150 XR-2 outboard? I've heard about these alarms and do worry about mine working. Thanks

 

[rlb9844]

Re: Kill switch/ Overtemp rewire.

Not sure about a Merc. but on my evinrude i just diconnect the sensor at the motor and touch the lead wire to the block. With key on it should sound.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Kill switch/ Overtemp rewire.

Works te same way on a merc. One of the cylinder head sensers may be for a gauge, but the other one will certainely be an overheat alarm. Key on, ground it out and listen for horn.