Boat Ignition Switch with Keys 87-17009A5
4.5Editor score
Direct Mercury replacement
Push to choke feature
Includes two keys
In this guide
Choosing the right ignition switch ensures your marine engine starts reliably every time. A quality switch offers durability against salt water and secure electrical connections for safety.
We evaluated ten top-rated switches based on compatibility build quality and user feedback. Each option meets OEM standards while offering affordable alternatives for various outboard motor models.
Each pick highlights key features and installation notes to help you find the best match. Prices and availability change frequently so verify details before ordering your replacement part.
Top 3 Picks for Best Outboard Motor Ignition Switches
703-82510-43-00 Outboard Ignition Switch Key
4.4Editor score
Yamaha specific fit
Waterproof sealed glue
No tools required
5005801 Boat Ignition Key Switch
3.7Editor score
Safety lanyard included
OMC Johnson fit
Premium plastic metal
Top 10 Best Outboard Motor Ignition Switches in 2026 Compared
This side-by-side comparison highlights key specifications for each switch to help you quickly identify the correct fit for your specific outboard motor model.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Best Budget
Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement Mercury
Mercury Mariner compatible
3 position 6 wire
24 month warranty
4.3Editor score
Editor's Choice
50-11651 Boat Ignition Starter Switch
Johnson Evinrude fit
Push to choke
6 terminals
4.3Editor score
Best Budget
Boat Ignition Switch with Keys 87-17009A5
Mercury Mariner replace
Push to choke function
5/8 max thickness
4.5Editor score
703-82510-43-00 Outboard Ignition Switch Key
Yamaha 6-300 HP
Waterproof sealed glue
No tools install
4.4Editor score
87-17009A5 87-17009A2 Boat Ignition Switch
Mercury control box
Corrosion resistance
1 year warranty
4.4Editor score
5005801 Boat Ignition Key Switch
OMC Johnson 40-200 HP
Safety lanyard included
Plug and play
3.7Editor score
5005801 Boat Ignition Key Switch Safety
AFEISOL compatible
Enhanced safety feature
Extendable lanyard
3.7Editor score
Ignition Switch 703-82510-44-00
Yamaha remote control
Push to choke
2-stroke 4-stroke
4.1Editor score
87-88107A8 87-88107A5 Boat Ignition Switch
Mercury 1994 later
Potted wire base
Salt spray resistance
4.3Editor score
Boat Ignition Switch with Key Mercury Mariner
High compatibility fit
2 push buttons
One year warranty
4.6Editor score
1. Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement Mercury – Best Overall Value
Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement Mercury
Marcury compatible
3 position design
6 wire connector
24 month warranty
This ignition switch provides a reliable direct replacement for most Mercury outboard control boxes with a 4.3 star rating from verified users who value its ease of installation and robust build quality.
Pros
- Matches factory color codes
- Easy plug and play
- Durable polyester brass
- Includes two keys
- Supports push to choke
Cons
- Check fitment carefully
- Not genuine OEM part
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Designed with a 3 position switch OFF RUN and START it features 6 wires for push to choke functionality. The high performance polyester and brass construction ensures safety durability and excellent electrical conductivity for your boat.
The wire colors match factory codes for simple direct replacement without splicing. While not a genuine OEM part it meets or exceeds standards. Always verify fitment to ensure it matches your model before ordering.
Ideal for boat owners needing a quick trustworthy fix for hard to turn keys or starting issues. The 24 month warranty adds confidence to your purchase for long term peace of mind on the water.
Direct Factory Replacement
Wire colors match factory codes for simple plug and play installation without any wire splicing required.
Long Term Durability
Constructed with high performance polyester and brass for excellent electrical conductivity and resistance to marine conditions.
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2. 50-11651 Boat Ignition Starter Switch – Best for OMC Johnson
50-11651 Boat Ignition Starter Switch
Johnson Evinrude fit
Push to choke
6 terminal design
Includes two keys
This switch replaces the 50-11651 part for most OMC inboard and outboard applications including Johnson and Evinrude motors with a solid 4.3 rating from satisfied customers.
Pros
- Fits OMC applications
- Integrated choke feature
- Includes two keys
- 3 position switch
- Easy to install
Cons
- Verify specific model fit
- Check dimensions before buy
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It features a push to choke switch that eliminates the need for a separate choke switch simplifying your control panel. The 6 terminal 3 position design handles Off ON and Start functions seamlessly.
The package includes two keys and the switch measures 2-7/64 inch by 1-29/64 inch. It works for reliable starting and stopping for your engine with consistent performance over time.
Perfect for Johnson and Evinrude owners seeking a straightforward replacement that integrates the choke function directly. Confirm your dimensions and part number match before purchasing to ensure compatibility.
Integrated Choke Function
Push to choke feature eliminates the need for a separate choke switch to simplify your boat panel layout.
Complete Package
Includes two keys for immediate use so you have a spare ready right from the start.
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3. Boat Ignition Switch with Keys 87-17009A5 – Best Budget Option
Boat Ignition Switch with Keys 87-17009A5
Mercury Mariner compatible
Push to choke feature
5/8 max thickness
Includes two keys
Rated 4.5 stars this switch offers an affordable direct replacement for most Mercury outboard control boxes with an inner seal and push to choke function for convenient operation.
Pros
- Affordable replacement
- Factory wire color codes
- Push to choke function
- Durable brass materials
- 100 percent tested
Cons
- Not genuine OEM part
- Check panel thickness
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Colors on switch wires match factory color codes for a simple plug and play installation with no wire splicing. The switch is made of polyester and brass for durability and excellent electrical conductivity.
It fits panels up to 5/8 inches thick and is rated up to 30 amps 12 V. Always compare the part number and switch with your current part to ensure a proper fit before purchase.
Ideal for budget conscious boat owners who want reliable performance without overspending. The inner seal between cylinder lock and contact plate adds protection against moisture and wear in marine environments.
Simple Installation
Colors on switch wires match factory color codes for a simple plug and play installation with no wire splicing needed.
Reliable Construction
Made of high quality polyester and brass for durability and excellent electrical conductivity with an inner seal for protection.
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4. 703-82510-43-00 Outboard Ignition Switch Key – Top Yamaha Fit
703-82510-43-00 Outboard Ignition Switch Key
Yamaha 6-300 HP
Sealed glue waterproof
No tools required
High strength material
This key ignition switch assembly meets or exceeds OEM specifications for Yamaha 2 and 4 stroke outboard motors from 1998 to 2013 with a 4.4 star rating from users.
Pros
- Fits Yamaha models
- Waterproof and dustproof
- High strength polyoxymethylene
- No tools needed install
- Meets OEM specs
Cons
- Verify model year fit
- Check part number
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It features a high-strength polyoxymethylene material and a high-quality pure copper core for durability. The sealed glue process ensures the switch is waterproof dustproof and insulated against marine elements.
Installation is easy with no tools required simply connect the original cable pull on the protective sleeve and tighten the nut to complete the process quickly and securely.
Best for Yamaha owners needing a reliable switch that handles 6 to 300 HP models. The waterproof design and copper core provide long-lasting performance even in harsh salt water conditions.
Waterproof Design
Sealed glue process ensures the switch is waterproof dustproof and insulated against harsh marine conditions.
Easy Installation
No tools required to install simply connect the original cable and tighten the nut to complete the setup.
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5. 87-17009A5 Boat Ignition Switch – Best Corrosion Protection
87-17009A5 87-17009A2 Boat Ignition Switch
Mercury compatible
Corrosion resistant
3 position 6 wire
Includes two keys
This switch offers great corrosion protection to eliminate oxidation and a non-conductive housing to prevent short circuits for extended service life in demanding marine environments with a 4.4 rating.
Pros
- Eliminates oxidation
- Non-conductive housing
- Matches factory codes
- OEM standard quality
- 1 year warranty
Cons
- Check part number first
- Not genuine Mercury part
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It replaces multiple OEM part numbers including 87-17009A5 and MP41070-2. The switch has 6 wires for push to choke and 3 positions Off Ignition Start for standard control functions.
Wire colors match factory codes for easy installation. It is a direct replacement meeting OEM standards but not a genuine Mercury part. Verify the part number before purchasing to ensure compatibility.
Perfect for those needing reliable start-stop control with long life against salt exposure. The one year warranty and customer support add value to this cost-effective solution for boat engines.
Corrosion Resistant
Great corrosion protection eliminates oxidation and a non-conductive housing prevents potential short circuits for extended life.
OEM Standard Quality
Meets OEM standards for direct replacement with wire colors matching factory codes for easy installation.
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6. 5005801 Boat Ignition Key Switch – Premium Safety Feature
5005801 Boat Ignition Key Switch
OMC Johnson fit
Safety lanyard included
Premium plastic metal
40-200 HP range
This marine boat ignition switch assembly features a safety lanyard that attaches to the operator's life vest or wrist to shut off the engine immediately if the operator falls overboard.
Pros
- Engine shuts off if overboard
- Includes safety lanyard
- Reliable and safe
- Plug and play design
- Includes two keys
Cons
- Verify fitment before buy
- 3.7 star rating lower
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Made of premium plastic and metal it ensures reliability safety and durability for OMC Johnson and Evinrude 40-200HP motors. It replaces part numbers 5005801 and 175974 for proper replacement.
The package includes one key switch two keys and one safety lanyard for complete installation. This safety feature protects both the person and the boat in case of an accident.
Ideal for safety conscious captains needing a kill switch with a lanyard. Verify fitment and part number before purchasing to ensure it matches your specific outboard motor model.
Safety Lanyard
Safety lanyard attaches to operator's life vest or wrist to shut off engine if operator falls overboard.
Premium Material
Made of premium plastic and metal for reliability safety and durability with excellent conductivity.
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7. 5005801 Ignition Key Switch Safety – Reliable Kill Switch
5005801 Boat Ignition Key Switch Safety
Johnson Evinrude compatible
Extendable lanyard
Quality safety feature
Direct replacement
This ignition key switch and safety lanyard assembly is compatible with Johnson Evinrude OMC outboard motors to provide reliable engine starting and enhanced safety priority with user protection.
Pros
- Priority user protection
- Extendable lanyard
- Easy plug and play
- Premium quality materials
- Includes two keys
Cons
- Check compatibility first
- Verify part numbers
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It replaces 5005801 and 175974. The quality safety lanyard cuts off power if an accident occurs. Premium materials ensure reliable ignition and shutdown with high durability for marine use.
The extendable safety lanyard allows for flexible use making it more user friendly for various boat layouts. Installation is direct and simple with just plug and play setup for quick start.
Great for operators who prioritize safety with a kill switch feature. Always verify compatibility and part numbers before purchasing to ensure it fits your specific motor model properly.
Enhanced Safety
Quality safety lanyard cuts off power if in the event of an accident to prioritize user protection.
Extendable Lanyard
Extendable safety lanyard allows for flexible use to make the switch more user friendly on board.
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8. Ignition Switch 703-82510-44-00 – Best Remote Box Fit
Ignition Switch 703-82510-44-00
Yamaha remote control
6HP-300HP fit
Push to choke
Main switch assembly
This ignition switch assembly fits most Yamaha outboard motors 6HP to 300HP from 1998 to 2013 including VMAX series with a 4.1 rating from buyers needing remote control replacements.
Pros
- Fits Yamaha remote
- VMAX series support
- OEM replacements listed
- 2-stroke 4-stroke
- Simple package
Cons
- Verify remote model fit
- Check year range
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It is a control box ignition switch with push to choke feature serving as the main switch assembly for Yamaha outboard motors to ensure proper engine control and start.
The package includes one ignition switch for your installation needs. It replaces multiple OEM part numbers for 703-82510-44-00 and 703-82510-42-00 for accurate direct replacement.
Perfect for Yamaha owners needing a remote box compatible switch with choke. Verify your remote model and year range before purchasing to ensure it matches your specific outboard system.
Yamaha Specific Fit
Fits most Yamaha outboard motors 6HP to 300HP from 1998 to 2013 including VMAX series models.
Push to Choke
Control box ignition switch with push to choke feature serving as the main switch assembly for motors.
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9. 87-88107A8 Boat Ignition Switch – Best Marine Grade Durability
87-88107A8 87-88107A5 Boat Ignition Switch
Mercury 1994 later
Potted wire base
Salt spray resistance
Includes two keys
This switch is a perfect replacement for Mercury part numbers 87-88107A8 and 87-88107A5 with optimized 6-wire design for push-to-choke and marine grade durability for salt-spray environments.
Pros
- Universal fitment
- Potted wire base
- Marine grade build
- Simple plug setup
- Technical support
Cons
- Side mount control only
- Verify year range
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Crafted from high-performance polyester and premium brass it offers superior electrical conductivity and salt-spray resistance. A potted wire base ensures the switch is waterproof and shockproof for harsh conditions.
It is engineered as a direct-fit replacement with no wire splicing or modifications required. Includes 2 keys and a pre-wired harness to get your boat back on the water in minutes.
Ideal for Mercury outboards 1994 and later needing a durable direct fit switch. Professional support is available for installation or fitment questions to ensure smooth replacement success.
Potted Wire Base
Potted wire base ensures the switch is waterproof and shockproof for harsh marine environments.
Direct Fit Design
Engineered as a direct-fit replacement with no wire splicing or modifications required for easy install.
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10. Boat Ignition Switch with Key Mercury Mariner – High Compatibility Fit
Boat Ignition Switch with Key Mercury Mariner
Mercury control box
2 push buttons
3 position design
One year warranty
This ignition key switch fits most Mercury Outboard Control Boxes with higher compatibility for direct replacement of Mercury OE Part No. 87-17009A2 and 87-17009A5 to simplify your purchase.
Pros
- High compatibility
- Color-coded wires
- Durable materials
- Quick assembly
- After-sales support
Cons
- Check fitment first
- Verify part numbers
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It features a 3-position design off-run-start and 6 wires for the choke function with color-coded wires matching original factory color-coding for efficient convenient assembly and installation.
Made of high performance polyester and brass materials for superior durability and conductivity. The switch starts and shuts down the motorized boat controlling the main electrical system reliably.
Great for Mercury owners needing a quick compatible replacement with professional after-sales service. Always double check the fitment for your motorized boat before purchasing to ensure the best fit.
Color-Coded Wires
Wires match original factory color-coding to make your assembly more efficient and convenient.
High Durability
Made of high performance polyester and brass materials for superior durability and conductivity.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Outboard Motor Ignition Switches
Selecting the right switch involves checking fitment materials and safety features for your engine.
Compatibility
Ensure the switch matches your outboard brand and part number like Mercury 87-17009A2 or Yamaha 703-82510. Verify control box type and year range to avoid fit issues.
Always cross reference your current part number and model year with the product description before purchasing.
Wire Connectors
Look for switches with matching wire counts like 6 wires for push to choke. Color-coded wires simplify installation without needing to trace factory colors manually.
Match wire color codes to factory specs for a plug and play installation without splicing.
Material Quality
High performance polyester and brass cores provide salt-spray resistance and excellent electrical conductivity in harsh marine environments over time.
Prioritize switches with corrosion resistant materials for durability and long term performance on the water.
Safety Features
Some switches include a safety lanyard kill switch for added protection in case of an operator falling overboard or an accident on board.
Consider models with lanyard support if safety priority is a key requirement for your boating needs.
Push to Choke
Switches with push to choke eliminate the need for a separate choke switch simplifying your control panel layout for easier access.
Check if your engine requires a push to choke function before selecting a model without it.
Installation Ease
Direct fit replacements that are plug and play save time and effort. Avoid switches requiring modifications or splicing if you want a simple install.
Select switches labeled as direct replacement with color coded wires for hassle free installation.
Warranty
Check warranty terms like one year or 24 months to ensure support if the switch fails early or has defects upon arrival.
Look for sellers offering warranty coverage and responsive customer support for peace of mind.
Customer Reviews
Read user feedback to verify real world reliability especially for starting issues and durability in your specific boating conditions.
Prioritize models with high ratings and reviews mentioning successful replacements for your exact motor model.
How to Use and Care for Your Outboard Motor Ignition Switches
Always turn the key to OFF before leaving the boat to prevent accidental startup and to save power in the battery.
Keep the switch dry and clean from salt water by rinsing it with fresh water after each use to maintain conductivity.
Periodically inspect the wires for wear and ensure connections are tight to avoid starting issues over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which ignition switch fits my boat motor?
Check the part number on your current switch or your engine manual. Match it to the compatibility list like Mercury 87-17009A2 or Yamaha 703-82510. Verify control box type and year range before buying.
Can I install a replacement ignition switch myself?
Yes most replacements are plug and play with color coded wires. Match wire colors to factory codes and connect directly without splicing. If unsure consult a marine electrician.
What is the push to choke feature?
Push to choke lets you start cold engines by pressing the key while turning it eliminating the need for a separate choke switch on the control panel.
Are these ignition switches waterproof?
Most feature sealed glue or potted wire bases to resist water. Salt-spray and marine resistant materials help prevent corrosion and electrical failure in wet conditions.
Do I need to buy keys with a new switch?
Most packages include two keys but verify the product details. Ensure key cuts match your ignition cylinder for proper locking and starting function.
How long do ignition switches typically last?
Quality marine switches can last many years with proper care. Material durability and corrosion resistance play key roles in extending service life on the water.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Outboard Motor Ignition Switches
The top picks offer reliable Mercury Yamaha and OMC replacements with safety and durability features for most outboard control boxes.
Prioritize fitment and wire codes to ensure easy installation and long term performance in marine environments.
Always verify current prices and availability before ordering to secure the best deal for your engine model.