Lost key, can I rig a push button ignition?

[Saskatoon2005]

So here goes, <br /><br /> I was working on my boat and my 3 year old was helping (watching) and he was playing around with the ignition key, trying to start it, so I removed the key and put it in my pocket.<br /><br /> I went all over town doing other jobs for around the house and guess what...I lost the key!<br /><br /> So my next question is, how can I rig it up so I can have a push button ignition? I have a rds-23. A 1961 Johnson Outboard motor with starter.<br /><br /> I have a 5 pole starter. A connection to the battery, a connection to the solenoid cut-out switch, a connection to the megneto plate, a connection to the solenoid switch, and the fifth connection is not used (it is for 12v accessories).<br /><br />Please help me so i don't go crazy. Thanks...in advance for your help.

 

[GatorMike]

Re: Lost key, can I rig a push button ignition?

Just guessing but you can probably buy a new starter switch with key for 30 bucks or so. Seems that would be your easiest solution.

 

[wjeffofl]

Re: Lost key, can I rig a push button ignition?

Hey Saskatoon,<br /><br />I dont know if this will be of help but a while back my brother went to replace a broken key. Thought it might be expensive, but it turns out that there are only a few (10 or so) different keys. He handed my brother a ring of keys and said go try these until one works and well get you a new one. The motor was an '80s model so I dont know if that will make a difference.<br /><br />The guy told him he loved working on Johnson motors because without fail somebody always forgets to bring or looses their key and all he has to do is grab his key ring and he's good to go. Good luck.<br /><br />Jeff

 

[Saskatoon2005]

Re: Lost key, can I rig a push button ignition?

I'll try to get another key at my local Johnson dealer and see if they can help me out.

 

[RPJS]

Re: Lost key, can I rig a push button ignition?

If you look on the front of the lock barrel you will find a number, your dealer will be able to match a key to that number.

 

[Saskatoon2005]

Re: Lost key, can I rig a push button ignition?

Hey, you guys this morning first thing, I phoned my jonny dealer and he had a key for my ignition. I paid like $7.00 for it but it was a lot cheaper than buying a new ignition switch. Thanks everyone for your help on this matter. Case closed.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Lost key, can I rig a push button ignition?

Then immediately go your local hardware store when keys are on sale and have them make three or four for you. Nothing special about the key. Heck, my office desk key worked in my last Evinrude lock.

 

[Saskatoon2005]

Re: Lost key, can I rig a push button ignition?

Thanks, will do!