Ignition Key On Dashboard and/or Control Box

[ShapeShifter]

I bought a boat today that had only one key that fit in the ignition switch on the dash panel. This same key does not fit the ignition switch in the back of the control box.

It is kind of an oddly shaped key. Does anyone know if there are two differnt types of OMC keys?

 

[reddogg]

Re: Ignition Key On Dashboard and/or Control Box

Which ignition switch is actually hooked up? Also I've heard that there are only 6 keys for OMC (dunno if thats true or not). It is a weird looking key, but if it starts the boat from the dash mounted switch, than the box switch prolly craped out and someone installed that one instead of fixing it. That's my guess anyhow.

Red

 

[hidef]

Re: Ignition Key On Dashboard and/or Control Box

The key for the console is a 1996 and newer key. The controls are mid 80's what is the model number of your outboard? Have you tried the key to see if it turns the engine over?

 

[ShapeShifter]

Re: Ignition Key On Dashboard and/or Control Box

The key for the console is a 1996 and newer key. The controls are mid 80's what is the model number of your outboard? Have you tried the key to see if it turns the engine over?

Yes, the key starts the motor. It is an E70TLEUM '97 70hp. The control box, dash ignition, and multi-function tach were all installed at a dealership at the same time.

I ask this question because I am pulling the whole rig to install it in a different boat and I would rather use a key for the control box than have to drill more holes in the dash.

 

[hidef]

Re: Ignition Key On Dashboard and/or Control Box

The dealer did the easy work around instead of replacing the controls (OMC changed wiring harness design in 1996) they mounted a key in the dash. You should be able to rewire your existing controls with the dash switch. I assume the old wiring harness with the big red plug is still attached to your controls. If it is it will need to be removed as none of that wiring is required as your outboard uses the modular connectors. Your other choice would be to find a set of 1996 or newer controls.

 

[ShapeShifter]

Re: Ignition Key On Dashboard and/or Control Box

The dealer did the easy work around instead of replacing the controls (OMC changed wiring harness design in 1996) they mounted a key in the dash. You should be able to rewire your existing controls with the dash switch. I assume the old wiring harness with the big red plug is still attached to your controls. If it is it will need to be removed as none of that wiring is required as your outboard uses the modular connectors. Your other choice would be to find a set of 1996 or newer controls.

Thanks for the input!

I think it is likely that the control box was existing when the previous owner re-powered with the 1997 motor. The dealer (probably) just wired for the new motor and left control linkage be.

I will have to see if the big red plug is in use at all. If my assumption above is true, it should not be. I just got the hull yesterday and have yet to get "upsidown" inside to see what is really what.......

BTW, If you know where to find an Operators Manual for this motor, please let me know.

Thanks,
-Todd

 

[hidef]

Re: Ignition Key On Dashboard and/or Control Box

You can find the service manual and operators manual at;

http://www.marineengine.com/parts/parts.php#manuals