Mercruiser 3.0 TKS ignition switch

[Coxn]

The ignition switch on my 2002 Mercruiser 3.0 TKS is falling apart. Barrel keeps dropping out whenever I retrieve the key. I was looking at buying a new one but I can't find a part specific to the motor listed anywhere. Lots of potential generic options, but I want to make sure I buy the right one. Anyone have a part number?

 

[AllDodge]

Howdy
I think your talking about the key switch, if that's the part than look for standard Merc or VP ignition switch. It will have 3 terminals unless you have an Accessory which will than have 4

Search for "Mercruiser ignition switch" then compare with you have with what is being offered. They are several different designs but how the wires attach is what to look for

 

[Coxn]

Yeah, did that. So many options out there and many look the same as mine. Looks like the main features I need are 3-way with tabs. Other than that I guess it's just hole size and panel thickness I need to worry about?

 

[kghost]

Here is a good choice

https://www.amazon.com/SEACHOICE-11621-3-Position-Ignition-Starter/dp/B0002UEPFY/ref=sr_1_3_mod_primary_new?crid=2A5SO54TCTXFD&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Ho_ZoHMBHQwUUnMZh_W_PBPqK3XoKk8CJxmd9sm-_kdRLdCS-3giFAEPfNvft8kUu8l9D71Z44ExeQ9WjyntDhJGF7XH_MVjmzm0wk5Uko7prtxniBFp0rw13Y0SncjSMEKhAszxyNmgrDgmPDxeEtRB73cRU0xed2ysronCTKWKnEAe5WTjIkanQlcwq5WTAGLse7-JhldupoHIDOCbkDrm6VAPC9LqAW0eFEGYEk0.Eb68YGlta6Is37rgPCANsykyKXEf6ojBZxWbHtLJ7_A&dib_tag=se&keywords=marine%2Bignition%2Bswitch&qid=1775983178&sbo=RZvfv%2F%2FHxDF%2BO5021pAnSA%3D%3D&sprefix=marine%2Bignition%2Bswitch%2Caps%2C117&sr=8-3&th=1

 

[AllDodge]

Yeah, did that. So many options out there and many look the same as mine. Looks like the main features I need are 3-way with tabs. Other than that I guess it's just hole size and panel thickness I need to worry about?

Don't need to worry about panel thickness, the nut on the back adjust to fit

 

[Coxn]

Matters somewhat. Some of these switches appear to be shorter than others, so they have to be at least long enough to get the nut on! I'll have to measure mine.

 

[Droid]

Most have the long neck, buy & be done. Maybe $25 & get out boating.

 

[Coxn]

With you there. I'm over thinking it

 

[kghost]

In my opinion, The "shorter" switches you refer to are the one and done switches that are cheap but work but when fail you throw them away.


The type I posted are constructed very well and some brands like that type are serviceable. The backing plate can be removed and the contacts can be cleaned which makes them last a life time. I have had that type of ignition switch in my boat for 39 yrs. I did have to service it once. One of the riveted contact points had loosened. I re-crimped it and has worked ever since.