dangerous ? key stuck in panel

[daletournier]

I saved a guy's boat that was dragging quickly onto a reef while he wasn't onboard, was only able to do it because the key was in the ignition. Literally meters from the reef when I got the engine on.

[Dave_S]

The most common reason for a stuck key is that the cam ("cam" a small part screwed to the back of the plug) ("plug" the small round part that the key goes into and turns with the key).

If the cam becomes loose the plug can move partially out of the ignition as the key is removed, then the internal pins won't align with the holes they should move into and can not rise and fall as the key is withdrawn, so the plug will not release the key.

Easy test.... with the key in the position where it would normally be able to be removed push the plug into the lock before and as you pull the key out of the lock. No additional force is necessary. If this works then you have proven it is the loose cam or fitting on the back of the plug.

If this is the problem it will most likely fall off one day (more sooner than later) then you would be in trouble. Don't do nothing.

If you are handy you can fix it yourself without a locksmith by

1. take the key out
2. remove the lock
3. remove any assembly components preventing access to the back of the ignition barrel
4. tighten the screws with a small amount of 222 loc-tite
5. test..... ONLY WHEN THE CAM AND SCREWS ARE TIGHT - NEVER HAVE THE KEY IN THE PLUG WITH THE CAM REMOVED OR YOU WILL END UP WITH SPRINGS AND PINS ALL OVER THE BOAT
6. reassemble

If you find something different let me know - preferably with a picture and I will try to work it out with you.

A locksmith SHOULDNT charge much to fix it if your worried about doing it your self.