ignition key question
 

I have an old quicksilver outboard control that I want to mount on a whaler with an 18HP Mercury, but the control is missing its key. I figured I'd need to replace the ignition in the control, but it would be much easier if there was a way to get a key made to fit the ignition. Anyone know if this is possible without a first key to copy?

I would take your missing key problem to Irwin Marine in Laconia and run it past their parts department. Could be there were only one or two or five different keys for this old control, and they have a set of these keys that's been there for the last 70-years, or something.

Thurston's Marina, Fay's Boatyard and Riveredge Marina in Ashland are strong possibilities.

www.bentonofboston.com could make a key for it, via the mail, and it is most likely a very uncomplicated type of a key similar to a 1950-60 car key.

I have an old, two-handle (throttle/gear) control but the ignition key entry is separate from the control.
I wouldn't mind seeing a picture of what you have!
Thanks!

Some of the marinas, and their mechanics, keep a large key ring full of many different ignition keys. I am pretty sure Irwin has one of those rings. There were only so may different keys made so there is a pretty good chance they could come up with one that would fit.

Some of the locks have a number on them and if you could find one on your lock it would make it a lot easier to match it up.

Locksmith?
 

I recall when locksmiths could make a new key for almost any lock.
It may also be possible to just bypass the
"lock" mechanism, or remove it so the starter can be engaged just by turning the ignition lock in its entirety.

thanks for replies
 

I called Shep's which is right next door, and they were able to match a key to it. As said above, there are only a few possibilities, and they matched it with their first try.