I have replaced basically every part on my scarab except the stock ignition key switches and wouldn't you know I am having problems with one of them!

Thinking of eliminating the keys entirely and going with toggles for ignition and push button for starters. When I rewired the boat I changed around the way things were wired so I don't use the acc side of the key so not loosing anything there.

Anyone done this?

Pro's & Con's?

Thanks
Jim

I left the keys and jist added starter buttons,,i like it because i crank the engines for about 10 seconds before turning the key so the engine has oil pressure..

That's a good reason, like I said one of my keys is acting up so pretty sure the keys are going

I did it and it worked flawlessly i also added a plastic cover for the starter button in case I hit it with my knee I think I split two of the standard ignition switches before I got rid of em

not like the keys are a theft deterrent. boats are the easiest thing to hot-wire there is...except mayve riding mowers. OH RIGHT!!! SAME SWITCH!!!

Lol so true I saw those push button starts with the keypad locks a while ago for "security" and had to laugh I could just imagine losing a motor trying to dock and frantically punching in combinations to get it restarted

Was thinking similar....

you think that's bad, try having one not restart on a twin shaft boat in a tiny little cove in front of somebody's fuel dock with 20 boats all around!! it only turns one way, and of course it is the wrong way...

That's the situation I am in now. Got the boat in the water yesterday at the marina. Started port motor, fine. Shut off port motor started starboard motor ( I always do that so i can hear each run separately first) went back to start port motor, nothing!! Ended up having to jump the starter lead on the engine to get it to light!

I am going to wire my ignition with a toggle and push button this winter. I like the simplicity and the looks. I will hide a secondary switch behind the dash for security.......Chances are a crook won't be able to find that, and if they do, It is insured!