CONTINUOUSWAVE

The engine ignition key switch on my 2005 180 Dauntless is very tight, and I am afraid a key may break off. There is not much room to get in behind the switch to pull it out and replace it. I've ordered a replacement.

What difficulty can I expect to have in replacing the ignition key switch?

Is the switch shown on the boat’s electrical schematic diagram? Check to see if there is a connector between the switch and the main engine harness.

What engine is on the boat?

Is the switch mounted on its own sub panel?

I just replaced the Mercury Key Switch on my 1988 Revenge 20 WT. The original switch had ten wires coming out the back and the replacement only had six. It was a very easy switch over. The wires on my original and the replacement matched color so it was simply a case of cut the original wire and solder in the new with a marine shrink wrap over top. Very easy too do. I made a diagram where each wire goes anyways just to be sure.

Have you tried spraying WD40 in the switch to loosen it up?