Outboard motor lockers are among the most prized possessions on a boat, making them easy targets for theft. Having an outboard motor stolen leads to expensive replacement costs, delayed boat use, and undue hassle. In addition to routine care, which ensures the motor works properly, its protection from theft should not be overlooked.

Installing a Nonpickable Kicker Motor Lock is a good start, but it would be much more effective to use a combination of several preventive measures.

1. Install a Dedicated Outboard Motor Lock

An outboard motor lock is an effective way to prevent theft of your boat’s outboard motor. While regular mounting equipment does not provide additional protection for your engine’s mounting points, these specialized locks do. Using such equipment makes it harder to remove the motor and increases the time required to do so.

Being visible, security equipment can also deter any would-be thieves. Seeing that you have put effort and money into securing your motor and the mounting points will usually prompt any prospective thieves to go elsewhere. Installing a waterproof lock provides additional protection against adverse environmental factors.

2. Secure Mounting Hardware and Fasteners

Improving the hardware securing the engine can greatly hinder attempts at stealing the vehicle.

• Use tamper-resistant bolts
• Upgrade to security nuts and bolts
• Reinforce the mounting brackets
• Choose corrosion-resistant hardware
• Regularly inspect and replace any damaged hardware

This increases the difficulty for the thief trying to remove the engine.

Why Is Layered Security More Effective?

It is common practice for boaters to believe that only one lock is necessary to keep their equipment safe. This may prove risky, as one type of security can always prove inadequate. Layers of security involve combining several types of security measures, which increase the time required to commit a crime, thereby making it less attractive.

Layering security involves items such as motor locks, trailer locks, security cameras, and designated areas to store your equipment. Many boaters use the Secure Outboard Kicker Lock as one of their layers of security due to its effectiveness.

3. Store Your Boat in a Secure Location

The location where you store your boat is a critical factor in security. No matter how efficient your locking system is, it can be even more effective when used in conjunction with a suitable place to store your boat.

Storing your boat in a brightly lit, busy area will reduce the risk of theft. Storage areas with controlled entry systems and surveillance cameras are also useful for keeping your boat secure. Where possible, choose a storage location where your boat cannot be stored out of sight.

4. Use Protective Covers and Conceal Valuable Equipment

Hiding equipment makes a vessel less attractive to would-be thieves.

Take note of the following practical considerations:

• Hide the outboard motor when not in use
• Unplug portable electronics after your trip
• Securely store accessories
• Do not leave expensive equipment exposed

Although covers are not substitutes for locks, they do serve to limit visibility.

Conclusion

Securing an outboard engine requires measures beyond using a single type of protective equipment. Specific locking systems, durable hardware installation, proper storage, and concealment of any equipment can collectively serve as protection against potential theft. It will be very difficult for anyone to remove your boat from its current location.

Useful tools, such as the Secure Locking Outboard Motor Lock, will provide you with additional safety each time you leave your boat alone. TylerBay Lock provides boat owners with reliable protection solutions that last for years.

Choose the most useful option that will help you secure your boat.