Old Merc Control photo: trying to identify, find key code, possibly rewire

[apson]

Hi all...can anyone help me identify this mercury control? It's currently attached to a 1961 Merc 700 FGS on a 1960 Glasspar Marathon. I have no ignition key so I made an attempt to "remove the back cover" (as some suggested in another thread) to find the key code...but as I began to pry it apart it looked as though I was about to buy myself another two months worth of work and $200 in parts I was able to shine the flashlight in a bit but couldn't see any label on the ignition switch.

Does anyone know if this model's back cover can lift off without severe consequences (for an amateur)?

If I were to rate my ability to take things apart and put them back together on a scale of 1 to 10 I would be a solid 8.2 ...but this was frightening. I would rate my wiring/soldering skills at a 9.8.

Photo:

 

[Laddies]

Re: Old Merc Control photo: trying to identify, find key code, possibly rewire

Start by removing the handle, then the box screws and the box will open easily

 

[apson]

Re: Old Merc Control photo: trying to identify, find key code, possibly rewire

Laddies That worked, thanks!

It wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be. I don't think it's been opened up in 50 years. I think I'm going to replace this ignition switch (assuming I can find one). If there was ever a label on it with the key code it is long since rotted away.

Here is my switch:

 

[SleekWolf]

Re: Old Merc Control photo: trying to identify, find key code, possibly rewire

A good marina that is a merc dealer should be able to hook you up with a new key switch. I think they're around $30. Or check on ebay. Thought I was going to have to replace mine (similar situation) but then I discovered I could turn it with a screw driver lol

 

[apson]

Re: Old Merc Control photo: trying to identify, find key code, possibly rewire

Thanks, SleekWolf. Even my local auto parts store has the Sierra MP41070-2 and MP41000 in stock. It has push to choke but I can just ignore those wires/connectors. Is there any reason either of these Sierra parts wouldn't work in this old of a control box (assuming I can get them to physically fit)? Some of the parts in the Sierra catalog say "magneto". I have the wire diagram for my box but no part numbers (and no schematic, just diagram); and it appears that the Sierra electrical catalog pdf links are broken...not sure if those would be any help to me.

I believe the part I need is #53211T but that's $40-45. I'd much rather buy one of these Sierra parts

 

[Laddies]

Re: Old Merc Control photo: trying to identify, find key code, possibly rewire

You need a switch for battery ign. Here's a wiring diagram

 

[apson]

Re: Old Merc Control photo: trying to identify, find key code, possibly rewire

Laddies, thanks - that's the exact diagram I was going by...I forgot what a magneto did :redface:. I also found a great thread here: http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=392797 with tips on upgrading the circuit to protect the rectifier.