Ignition key won't turn . . .

[BigManDan72]

I bought a 1985 Wellcraft last weekend and saw it start and run. When I got it home I took the key out of the ignition to use the other key to open the glove box and when I put the key back in the ignition I could not get it to turn. I asked the PO and he said he never took they key out of the ignition and didn't ever have this problem. Any ideas why I am having thi troubel and what I can do about it? I will try applying a bit of WD40 to see if that frees it up but I'm looking for any tips or experiences you may have.

 

[BigManDan72]

P.s. The lower unit was all the way up. Don't know if there is a locking mechanism or something when the LU is not down.

 

[bruceb58]

definitely put some sort of lube in the lock. Not sure WD40 is the best for a lock though. Pulling the key out likely pushed some of the tumblers up and they may be stuck in the up position.

There is no interlock.

 

[Scott Danforth]

worst case you spring $20 for a new ignition switch and key.

 

[BigManDan72]

Thanks for the tips guys!

 

[roffey]

,, and you tried it both ways, right side up and upside down. I know it sounds stupid as the key does not have a right side up but I don't know how to say it, LOL.

 

[TruckDrivingFool]

,, and you tried it both ways, right side up and upside down. I know it sounds stupid as the key does not have a right side up but I don't know how to say it, LOL.

What he said.....

Don't remember where but just saw this be the problem in another thread, key needed flipped 180?.

 

[BigManDan72]

Thanks, everyone, for your respones. It turns out the problem is that the boats new owner is an idiot. :facepalm: I would prefer not to elaborate further because of just how stupid I was being.

 

[JASinIL2006]

Oh, come on, give us the details, man. Not like any of us haven't done that sort of thing. Regularly.

 

[BigManDan72]

Oh, come on, give us the details, man. Not like any of us haven't done that sort of thing. Regularly.

Well ... okay. I was using the wrong key. I swear I tried the right key earlier in the week and it would not even fit into the ignition but this time it slid right in. Like I said, pretty stupid. But also good to know I don't have a more serious problem.

 

[JASinIL2006]

Glad that's all it was!