Yamaha 40

[Budman14]

Hey guys I've got a 1993 Yamaha 40 hp 2-stroke tiller with electric start. When I got the boat the key was missing and the po had just been using a flat head screwdriver jammed into the ignition switch to start it. Needless to say that I've been using the same thing since I've had it, but I'm tired of being on the water and worrying about losing that screwdriver.
So I was wondering, can the ignition switch be replaced with a generic one?

 

[99yam40]

lots of things can be done, but why not buy a key for the switch.
check with your local yamaha dealer

 

[mjf55]

If the OP is using a screw driver, wouldn't the tumblers in the switch be broken by now, requiring a new switch?

 

[Budman14]

That's what I'm thinking. I've seen generics online just wondering if they'd work? I'd asked a guy at a shop before about a push button start and he said I'd have to get a new wire harness so I figured I'd just keep the screwdriver till I figured out something else

 

[99yam40]

why not drop by a Yamaha shop with the boat in tow and ask if you can try a key to see if it will work.
seems the switch works as it should so why buy a new on unless it is proven to be a problem