Ignition key is not turning anymore

[proffess]

Hello fellow boaters,

I have an issue with our 2010 Sundancer 240. We came back late to home marina after the trip and left our boat in the slip. In the morning, a crew member from marina called saying that they cannot turn the ignition key to flush an engine. He said he can insert the key, but it does not turn. At all.
Which I found very strange, because when we left our boat (I took the key off the ignition), everything was working, no issues with inserting, turning, removing the key during the trip.

We came back to the marina and lol, the key does not turn. It looks like something blocking it - it reminded me old cars anti-theft mechanisms that lock the steering wheel and ignition key is not turning (like in Honda Accord). I googled and it seems there is nothing like that in boats.

So, what should I do? I only have 1 key, so cannot test. Should I replace an ignition?

Thank you.

 

[proffess]

Here is the link on video, if helps:

PXL_20240316_163815185.mp4

drive.google.com

 

[bobeast]

I'd try spraying some silicon lube into the key cavity and then quickly moving the key in and out of the ignition 10 or so times. These switches can get gummed up at which point the springs aren't able to line up the tumblers.

If that doesn't work, you'll probably need to replace the ignition switch.

 

[proffess]

Thanks. We tried WD40 and it didn't help. What beats me how suddenly it happened. The key was working a day before just perfectly. I don't want to imply anything, but I'm questioning if somebody apply to much force to the key to make ignition hole broke or something.