HOC member login

Message Board

Message board > Miscellaneous topics > Engine Security

Message 11 of 11
Posted by member Simon Kidd on Thursday 31 March 2016

Hi Rob. It's a nightmare sometimes - I work in the business and by dint of my work, many people benefit - including boatyards etc (it's not what my job is about, but it is a by product of our work) and for me to have work done on boat seems as difficult as ever. Good luck with it. Regards Si.

Add your comment

Message 10 of 11
Posted by member rob mcinnes on Wednesday 30 March 2016

Thanks Simon, The shame is that the engine has still not been fitted! I've had no word from the company since 11th March and he doesn't answer his phone. He does a lot of business with the boatyard, but unfortunately cannot be relied upon to turn up when he says he will! Your comments are noted though for when he gets around to it! Thanks again Rob

Add your comment | ^Top

Message 9 of 11
Posted by member Simon Kidd on Sunday 27 March 2016

Rob. Just make sure you use a proper "Purpose made outboard engine lock" - or however this is worded in your insurance documentation. No matter how many locks you fit - it will not stop someone taking the engine - they may even chain saw the boat to take the engine - I've seen this all too many times. The big issue here is to make sure you comply with your insurance companies requirements to the letter - that way if your engine is taken - then you should be covered without any aurgument.. I find 50% of boats with outboards fitted, either have no locks or home made locks -or padlocks - neither of which tend to comply. On a shocker of a note - I've known a boat afloat with twin engines to have had both taken (both fitted with proper locks) - the boat sank as a result of the holes left in the transom from the mounting bolts. The insurance company paid out and she's back up and running following a complete refit. Best Regards Si.

Add your comment | ^Top

Message 8 of 11
Posted by member rob mcinnes on Monday 29 February 2016

Thanks Robert, I'm off to the Marina tomorrow to look at the very type of locks you mention. I will post which one I go for. Cheers Rob

Add your comment | ^Top

Message 7 of 11
Posted by member Robert Sneddon on Sunday 21 February 2016

Hi Rob. Good idea to forget the welding option. If you don't want to use a lock with a key have a look at the type of outboard lock which is similar to a locking nut used to secure alloy wheels on a car. There are plenty of suppliers from your local chandler to eBay. They are insurance approved and easy to fit, just make sure it suits the bolt size and threads. Nothing is 100% safe but a good deterrent. Hope this helps Robert.

Add your comment | ^Top

Message 6 of 11
Posted by member rob mcinnes on Friday 12 February 2016

Thanks all, Some excellent suggestions there. I might have a word with the marina manager about Smart Water and see if other boat owners are interested. I won't go ahead with the welding, I was a bit dubious about it. Security is one thing I am really anxious about,so I will probably incorporate as many of your suggestions as possible. Some great advice on this forum! Cheers Rob PS. I wll get some pictures of the boat over the weekend.

Add your comment | ^Top

Message 5 of 11
Posted by member Peter on Thursday 11 February 2016

Hi Rob, Here is an example of a transom clamp lock. http://www.seamarknunn.com/acatalog/fulton-outboard-motor-lock-1654.html Regards, Peter

Add your comment | ^Top

Message 4 of 11
Posted by member Peter on Thursday 11 February 2016

Hi Rob, I also use a transom bolt lock which is a real pain to get off without the key. It is on the inside of the transom under the outboard well and you would need a grinder and lay on your back to cut it off. You can also get an insurance approved transom clamp screw cover which is a hardened steel tube which slides over the transom clamps and then has a lock which slides in. These are not cheap for an approved one but has a good visual deterrent. Traceability is also a good thing so if it does go walk about you do have some means of ID other than the serial number. A few years back the River Orwell at Ipswich they had a bad spat of thefts from floating moorings where some boats actually had their outboards and transoms cut out with chainsaws/grinders. The police recovered most, but those that had no tracing marks etc.had already been sold on. Look forward to seeing a few pictures, Regards, Peter

Add your comment | ^Top

Message 3 of 11
Posted by member hardy editor on Thursday 11 February 2016

Hi chaps, I was the same as Mike inasmuch as I lost my key and had to have the old lock cut off, when I changed my 20HP for a 40HP, but even so, getting a good lock and key from your dealer is the way to go - just look after that key ! Also, I used Smartwater, which is a DNA type forensic traceable liquid, which is registered with the police, and is easy to apply. You can use it on everything including your engine (make sure you put it somewhere on the engine frame itself, other than just the cover, so that it can be found if needed.) They also supply you with a bunch of stickers so that you can make it obvious to the thieves that the product has been used on your boat. Given the choice between your boat and one without the stickers might just make the difference. We were lucky as our marina manager got a special deal because he bought a lot of it, and then it was made available to everyone at our marina at a cheaper rate than normal. It did stop a glut of thefts. Good luck with it all, Marie.

Add your comment | ^Top

Message 2 of 11
Posted by member Mike Insall on Thursday 11 February 2016

You can get locking bolts that use a key! I had one on my previous boat, but when I came to remove the OB there was no key! It was a nightmare getting the bolt off using a grinder in a very difficult position! I would NOT weld the nuts on!! You can by the way also check to see if your new OB has been stolen by going on to the web site - STOLEN BOATS Cheers, Mike

Add your comment | ^Top

Message 1 of 11
Posted by member rob mcinnes on Thursday 11 February 2016

As you may have gathered from another thread, I have just ordered a new engine (Mariner 25) for my FP. My main concern now, is keeping ownership of said engine! It will be bolted onto the stern and it has been suggested that the bolts be welded on, but my insurance states that I must have an approved outboard lock. I would therefore be grateful if anybody can suggest a suitable lock for this purpose. I am also purchasing a fabric 'Boat Watch' cover in order that I can remove the cowling when the boat is not in use and store it at home, thus making it a less attractive proposition to any would be new owner.

Add your comment | ^Top

You must be logged in to post to the Hardy Motor Boat Owners Club message board. Click here to login in. If you’re not yet a HOC member then why not join us today?