Testing a key switch

[Shorebum]

Is there a test for the different poles on a key switch? The key switch on my boat works without the lanyard on it. In other words the spring loaded center section is always in the out position. Is that correct?

 

[Tim Frank]

Re: Testing a key switch

Is there a test for the different poles on a key switch? The key switch on my boat works without the lanyard on it. In other words the spring loaded center section is always in the out position. Is that correct?

Not for safest operation.

 

[nymack66]

Re: Testing a key switch

Why ruin a great day of Boating over a faulty key switch? Replace it and save yourself some trouble.

 

[wilde1j]

Re: Testing a key switch

If it's the part the key goes into, and your deal is push the key inward to choke/prime, then it's fine. Otherwise, I don't understand. BTW, what exactly is your issue?

 

[Tim Frank]

Re: Testing a key switch

Jim, the type of key switch that he is describing has a "3-position" switch. The fully out position...when the safety lanyard "key" is removed, should kill the ignition.
Normal position...when the key is installed allows the ignition to operate.
Push the key in and the choke is activated.

Sounds like it is faulty or has been "modified" to bypass this safety feature.

 

[wilde1j]

Re: Testing a key switch

Ah, I misunderstood what he had. Tkx.

 

[mamm7215]

Re: Testing a key switch

I have exactly the same issue, sorry don't mean to hijack thread. My new to me boat didn't have the lanyard but runs fine with switch. Turns out the black/yellow wire to the safety switch is broken/cut. Besides the safety issue, could this cause wiring problems/arcing because this wire is cut? I'll be fixing it shortly anyways but just curious, I have a proper safety lanyard now.

 

[Shorebum]

Re: Testing a key switch

Thanks for replies. $54 replaces and clears my worries.