Abstract: A method for automatically starting and stopping engine(s) of a vessel based on the position of a handle. Automatic starting occurs by activating an ignition circuit, receiving a signal indicating handle position, and providing a signal to start the engine when the handle is out of neutral position. A signal to shift the transmission into gear is sent when the handle is in an idle position. Automatic stopping of the engine includes receiving a signal the handle is in neutral, receiving status information of the engine, and providing a signal to stop the engine when the handle is in neutral and either the engine is not running or at least one of a number of conditions are met. A shutoff timer may delay auto stop of the engine, which may reset whenever any of the conditions ceases to be true.

Abstract: A method for automatically starting and stopping engine(s) of a vessel based on the position of a handle. Automatic starting occurs by activating an ignition circuit, receiving a signal indicating handle position, and providing a signal to start the engine when the handle is out of neutral position. A signal to shift the transmission into gear is sent when the handle is in an idle position. Automatic stopping of the engine includes receiving a signal the handle is in neutral, receiving status information of the engine, and providing a signal to stop the engine when the handle is in neutral and either the engine is not running or at least one of a number of conditions are met. A shutoff timer may delay auto stop of the engine, which may reset whenever any of the conditions ceases to be true.

Abstract: A system for automatically starting and stopping engine(s) of a vessel based on the position of a handle. Movement of the handle out of neutral initiates the automatic starting of the engine(s) by an ECM. Movement of the handle into neutral initiates the automatic stopping of the engine(s), which may also require certain other prerequisite conditions. An ECM is in electrical communication with the engine(s), transmission, battery, initializer, starter, and various sensors providing information on the position of the handle and other conditions including engine speed, temperature, transmission speed, vessel speed and battery voltage. The ECM includes memory and processor(s), and is configured to receive information from the various sensors and operative components of the vessel and determine when to initiate automatic start and stop of the engine(s) based on thereon.