The Shaft Lok unit is designed so that it will automatically unlock when the engine is started and the transmission put into gear.
When measuring the cable path allow a few extra inches (50mm-75mm) to make sure the cable is slightly slack. Once the cable is shipped it cannot be altered. So if it is too short, it simply will not fit. Making the cable a little longer than necessary will not affect the cable operation.
Most cruising sailors fit the control cable closer to the engine area inside the boat.
It is not necessary to position the control cable at the helm station since the Shaft Lok unit automatically unlocks.
The Simple Spring Locking System replaces the control cable. The SSLS is affixed to the top of the Shaft Lok unit. The SSLS means that someone has to access the engine room when locking the unit.
To lock the unit, push on the black palm knob on the Control Cable or the Simple Spring Locking System. Especially during the first few times locking the unit it is important to feel the locking pin move into the cam on the black rotating disc. The shorter cable helps in this regard to lock the unit.
We suggest making a rough cardboard cutout of the unit. Cut the template in half and slide along the shaft in the area where the Shaft Lok unit is to be mounted.