they fell in the water!

[kathyc]

I finally got my first boat, and...I lost the key!!! Are there universal keys? I have a 1977 Merc700-70hp. The ignition is in my throttle part. Can I replace just the key part or do I need to replace the whole throttle? If i can replace the key part...does anyone know the part number or info? Thanks. FYI I am a single 50 yr old living out her mid-life crisis!!

 

[mthieme]

Re: they fell in the water!

I have used different keys on the plastic locks. A new switch with a key is under $20 (worst case).
Consider purchasing a key float.

 

[matt9923]

Re: they fell in the water!

Get a key float for 50cents. $15 for key or key and ignition
Matt

 

[kabcpapc]

Re: they fell in the water!

When I couldn't find my keys after several years of boat storage and 3 house moves, I took the remote control unit off the boat and went to my Mercury dealer. They looked for a number that was on the inside of the unit. Once they found the number they were able to find keys that would work. The cost? $3.95 per key. I hope your dealer is as honorable as mine and won't try to overcharge you.

I believe the number is on the ignition part that you put the key in. You can probably take the unit off the boat (you don't have to take off the cables, just remove the bolts that hold it to the side of the boat) and remove the ignition part yourself and take that to the dealer. I had to replace my cables anyway because they had been cut when the lowlife stole my previous motor. That's why I took my unit to the dealer.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: they fell in the water!

looks at the ignition switch, there should be #s next to the slot, any dealer can get you a key, from that #. try here. http://www.eastcoastmarineservice.com/marine_accesories.htm

 

[Chris1956]

Re: they fell in the water!

Kathy, There are only about 10-12 different keys. If you can trailer the boat to a dealer, he can figure out which one it is rather esaily.