[deblynlea]

We have a 2001 Shabbah 218 with a 5.7 GS volvo and Penta SX outdrive. I just recently noticed a small rubbrer switch located on the forward control just ahead of the throttle lever. Can anyone tell me what that might be?

[indykoch]

That's your kill switch. There should be a lanyard attached to it. When you connect the lanyard to yourself, then happen to fall out of the boat (or even the seat), it pulls this switch and the engine will die and prevent the boat from becoming an unguided missile through the water.

I don't attach mine to myself, but should. That's another debate for another thread. I'm on a tiny lake without much debris or waves, so don't really feel the need. However, I definitely don't condone it and would be the first in line to sue someone for not wearing it if they injured myself or family! Hypocrite??? Yes, definitely. But again, I'm an idiot and SHOULD use it!!

[ShabahZ250]

indykoch's right. The Mercruiser and Volvo throttle levers have kill switches attached. The models with the Kiekhafer throttle & shifter levels have a seperate kill switch the lanyard attaches to. I usually don't wear mine unless I'm exceeding speeds over 40mph, in seas higher than 3 ft, or if I feel I'm in danger. It's a great safety feature.