1987 OMC Ignition key switch locked and will not turn

[FiddleFaddle]

Silly question but suddenly my ignition key switch seems "locked" or stuck in the off position and will not turn to the on or start position with both keys. I suspect the switch may be bad, Anyone had this problem ? Any easy fix ? Or am I buying a new ignition switch ?? Is there any lockout that will prevent the key from turning ??

 

[cyclops222]

I would buy the EXACT SAME key switch. There is a set of contacts to make and break in the correct sequence. Disconnect 1 or both of the battery posts to prevent a accidental dead short between the + and _ battery posts of the switch.
I would use tape and Magic Marker om every wire on each screw terminal.
Some body can post the switch post colors of wire on each molded in letter of the switch. You can also make your own drawing of all the posts and # of wire on each post............. You MUST get every wire on the EXACT CORRECT switch post !!! Close enough can melt wire if yo get them wrong !!! Perfect work the FIRST TIME !! or pay a mechanic to do it

 

[FiddleFaddle]

I would buy the EXACT SAME key switch. There is a set of contacts to make and break in the correct sequence. Disconnect 1 or both of the battery posts to prevent a accidental dead short between the + and _ battery posts of the switch.
I would use tape and Magic Marker om every wire on each screw terminal.
Some body can post the switch post colors of wire on each molded in letter of the switch. You can also make your own drawing of all the posts and # of wire on each post............. You MUST get every wire on the EXACT CORRECT switch post !!! Close enough can melt wire if yo get them wrong !!! Perfect work the FIRST TIME !! or pay a mechanic to do it

Im an electrician so I am good with the wiring aspect. I was wondering more if there is anything that would prevent the key form switching to the on position ? If the switch has failed, anyone know the OEM part numbert

 

[cyclops222]

www.crowleymarine.com will / should have what you need.

 

[FiddleFaddle]

www.crowleymarine.com will / should have what you need.

Thank You. I ordered a new ignition switch.

 

[saltchuckmatt]

There's no lock out for that switch. Only real explanation is lock cylinder froze or key went bad. Does the key come out? If so look for a number on the key or the end of the cylinder.

Try replacing the key or add graphite. Much less work.

Cyclops is correct, not much clearance in that older white control box.

 

[FiddleFaddle]

There's no lock out for that switch. Only real explanation is lock cylinder froze or key went bad. Does the key come out? If so look for a number on the key or the end of the cylinder.

Try replacing the key or add graphite. Much less work.

Cyclops is correct, not much clearance in that older white control box.

The keys do come out, I have two keys and both wont turn to the on position, just odd because had no previous issues, maybe one of the pins broke ??? I ordered a new switch, dont want to get stuck on the water with a sticky switch. I did open the box and yes it is tight but I ordered the OEM replacement so it should fit.

 

[havoc_squad]

The keys do come out, I have two keys and both wont turn to the on position, just odd because had no previous issues, maybe one of the pins broke ??? I ordered a new switch, dont want to get stuck on the water with a sticky switch. I did open the box and yes it is tight but I ordered the OEM replacement so it should fit.

Make sure you disconnect battery power when replacing it and triple check the wiring is placed correctly and won't leave exposed conductors. If battery positive voltage touches your kill circuit wire or 12 volts positive incorrectly is switched to your kill circuit wire, you will fry your outboard's ignition system.

 

[saltchuckmatt]

I'd you've giving up trying to repair it, stick a screwdriver in it and turn real hard. A key in an outboard is pretty much a waste of time. If they're going to steal it, they're going to steal it.

I leave my boat on a buoy all summer with the keys in it.