Before Posting, Please Read Our Posting Guidelines Below.
1. Use the full 4 digit year for everything you are asking your question about. Example: 1962, 1988, 2000, 2011 2. Include the correct name of your Whaler model. Example: Montauk 17, Montauk 170, Outrage 26, Outrage 260 3. Include the length when necessary. Example: 16, 17, 18, 20, 22 4. Do not post your email address anywhere on this site as it is already in your user profile.
I have searched the website but don't see any mention of original keys. Is it possible to make a copy of the old key? My local lock shop says no, boot makes it impossible. Can I get a spare key from my local BW dealer? Engine is actually a 1988 Johnson 88SPL. http://s1146.photobucket.com/user/rjw...amp;page=1
Go to your local ACE hardware. They work around the boot and will cut you a working key. However, it will not have a boot but look like a regular key. I also have bought booted key blanks off ebay and had the Ace guy cut them for me, just paying a nominal fee.
I believe there were only a handful of different keys used on OMC engines. Your local dealer may stock all of them. That is where I would look. If it's not too much trouble you could remove the switch and take to the dealer to try the keys in stock or, you could buy one of each, find the right one and return the others for a refund.
I have removed the boot and had keys made and then replaced the boot. It's been awhile but I believe I heated the key and boot by placing it in direct sunlight in the summer. Grab the key with a pair of pliers and simply work the boot off. I am sure that hot water would work to make the boot flexible enough to pull off.
RjWoody4 - I went through this same exercise when I was looking for a spare key for my 1989 Johnson motor. I first went to Ace, then a locksmith, then another locksmith and they couldn't match the key blank. I ended up going to my local Marine Johnson repair shop and he had a whole drawer of these keys. We just matched the number on the keys, I got 4 extra keys at $5.00 a key. If your guy doesn't have the keys, check with Cape Charles Marine, in Cape Charles, Virginia, and Phil will help you out. Except for the key I use most of the time, I wouldn't worry about the boot. I hide one key on the boat in case it gets lost or goes overboard, and the others are kept back for spares or to to leave with the boat when I have work done on it. I hope this helps.
