problem with key switch lock nut on merc tiller

[NWaddict]

I have a 2000 125hp mercury outboard with a tiller, the common kind with the black box where the key switch for the ignition is located. The key switch is held in place by a nylon nut that threads on to it. The problem I'm having is with the nylon nut slipping and failing to hold the key switch in place. For people that are familiar with the setup, has anyone else had a problem with the nut not holding the key switch in place? Any good solutions?

It seems like the nut slips every once in awhile while I turn the key and will also sometimes "give out" if I try to tighten it too much. At this point, I'm either going to order a new nylon nut or try to find a different solution (like a metal nut?). I dont have a lot of faith that a new nylon nut will do the trick, but maybe mine is just worn out (?).

Anyone with experience with this problem?

Thanks.

Dom

[fishin"G"man]

You might try running a wrap of Teflon tape around the threads like you would around a pipe fitting then tightening the nut. If the nylon threads on the switch are bad you're buying a new switch (it would seem to me).

If I'm not mistaken those switches are generic and available at NAPA and other auto supply stores.

[honker1]

How about a nut with a set screw in it.

[FishGeek]

I have this same problem, and have never done anything about it.

I think I will try the teflon tape idea. I wonder if a metal nut may cause more harm than good, wouldn't want it to damage the plastic threads.

[NWaddict]

Originally Posted by FishGeek

I have this same problem, and have never done anything about it.

I think I will try the teflon tape idea. I wonder if a metal nut may cause more harm than good, wouldn't want it to damage the plastic threads.

I tried teflon tape before posting this thread and it didn't work for me. Maybe I'm wrong but I think the key switch is metal but the nut is nylon, which seems to possibly be the root of the problem.

Anyone else out there had this issue and found a "fix" to this problem?

[Boat Doc']

Originally Posted by NWaddict

I tried teflon tape before posting this thread and it didn't work for me. Maybe I'm wrong but I think the key switch is metal but the nut is nylon, which seems to possibly be the root of the problem.

Anyone else out there had this issue and found a "fix" to this problem?

Sounds like either the nut or the switch is stripped. I think you need to replace the switch assy.