Lost keys... change ignition or get one made?

steinjo

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
May 17, 2005
Messages
48
Bought a used pontoon with a 90 hp Mercury sn# 0G556703 that didn't have keys...<br /><br />Thought it would be simple to change the ignition switch.<br /><br />Well, it has the "push to choke" feature and it has the following configuration in a counterclockwise order:<br /><br />red /purple<br />red<br />black / yellow<br />red / yellow<br />black<br />black<br />purple <br />purple<br />black / yellow (not being used)<br />black / yellow <br /><br />Any idea where to get this 10 wire switch? I've searched dozens of marine supply sites and have found Mercury or Quicksilver 6 wire switches but not 10. Or, can I get a key made?
 

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Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Sep 23, 2004
Messages
1,707
Re: Lost keys... change ignition or get one made?

Those keys are available from Mercury. Look for a code number molded on the switch casing, or on a label. The last digits are the key code ie. "2B". There are 12 possibilities 1A through 2F. If you cannot find that number, most dealer/service centers should have a key ring with various keys on it to try.
 

steinjo

Seaman Apprentice
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May 17, 2005
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48
Re: Lost keys... change ignition or get one made?

Thanks "1C" Glad I didn't cut all of the wires..
 

tashasdaddy

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
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Nov 11, 2005
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51,019
Re: Lost keys... change ignition or get one made?

go to oldmercs.com click "new electric start componets. they have all the keys.
 

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Lieutenant Commander
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Re: Lost keys... change ignition or get one made?

Perfect. For $2.50/ea you're back in business.
 
Joined
Apr 20, 2006
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Re: Lost keys... change ignition or get one made?

A bit late but I discovered this a while back,<br />Duct tape a spare key to the underside of your<br />motor cowl. Stuff happens, especially when your<br />near water.
 

tashasdaddy

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Re: Lost keys... change ignition or get one made?

musky great idea.
 

swist

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 1, 2004
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678
Re: Lost keys... change ignition or get one made?

This episode may also lead you to observe how few combinations of keys are actually made for boats.<br /><br />If you wander around a marina and try to start every control of the same brand you will have a pretty good chance of finding one that fits.
 

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Lieutenant Commander
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Sep 23, 2004
Messages
1,707
Re: Lost keys... change ignition or get one made?

That's true, but unlike most vehicles these days there's not much protection that a key can provide for an outboard motor regardless of how special the key profile is. The electrical system itself is very simplistic, especially on older motors.<br /><br />Anyone with a wire to jump the starting solenoid, and a basic know-how of the electrical system can start the motor relatively easily. No key required. The key itself provides a false sense of security for the owner, and perhaps a minor deterant to would-be thieves.
 
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