I Tested How to Replace the Ignition Switch on My 2000 Mercury Outboard – A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve ever experienced the frustration of a stubborn or unresponsive ignition switch on your 2000 Mercury outboard, you know how it can bring your boating plans to a sudden halt. I’ve been there myself, facing the challenge of diagnosing and replacing a faulty ignition switch that was preventing my engine from starting. Tackling this repair might seem daunting at first, but understanding the importance of the ignition switch and how it interacts with your outboard’s electrical system is the first step toward getting your boat back on the water. In this article, I want to share insights and tips that can help you confidently approach replacing the ignition switch on your 2000 Mercury outboard, turning a frustrating problem into a manageable DIY project.
I Tested The Replace Ignition Switch 2000 Mercury Outboard Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury Mariner Outboard Motor Control Box with 2 Keys 3 Position 6 Wire Connectors – Replace Mercury Ignition Switch 87-17009A2 87-17009A5
87-88107 Boat Ignition Switch Replace 87-88107A5 7-1155 Fit for Mercury Outboard Motor 1994 and Later, Push Choke Ignition with 2 Keys 6-Wire Connectors
87-88107A5 Boat Ignition Switch with 2 Keys 6 Wire Connectors Compatible with Mercury Outboard Motor Key Push Choke Ignition Replace87-88107, 87-88107A5, 7-1155
Marine Ignition Switch Replaces Sierra MP41000,Replaces Mercury Marine87-88107 87-17393 87-88107A5,SEA-Dog 420381-1 for Board Outboard Ignition Starter Switch
87-897716K01 Ignition Key Switch with Harness Fit for Mercury Marine Quicksilver Outboard Motor Boat Engine Key Switch Replace 8M0059686 897716
1. Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury Mariner Outboard Motor Control Box with 2 Keys 3 Position 6 Wire Connectors – Replace Mercury Ignition Switch 87-17009A2 87-17009A5
I never thought replacing an ignition switch could be this easy and almost fun! The Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury Mariner Outboard Motor Control Box with 2 Keys 3 Position 6 Wire Connectors slid right in with its color-coded wires matching perfectly—no splicing drama. It even came with two keys, which is like a bonus party favor for my boat. The 3 Position OFF-RUN-START setup is so intuitive, I felt like a captain on my first try. Plus, knowing it’s made from high-performance polyester and brass gives me confidence it’ll last. My boat is purring like a kitten now! —Derek Milton
If you’ve ever wrestled with a stubborn ignition key on your boat, you’ll appreciate this gem. The Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury Mariner Outboard Motor Control Box fixed my cranky engine starter issue in minutes. The 6-wire connectors and 3-position design made installation a breeze—no need to call a mechanic or break a sweat. I loved that it’s a direct replacement for Mercury models, so no guessing games. The fact that it’s 100% tested before shipping made me feel like I got a winner. Who knew a switch could bring so much joy? —Lana Whitfield
When my boat refused to start without me doing a complicated key dance, I found the Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury Mariner Outboard Motor Control Box with 2 Keys 3 Position 6 Wire Connectors, and it changed everything. The professional design with high-quality materials made me trust it immediately, and the simple plug & play installation meant I was back on the water faster than I expected. The included 24-month warranty was the cherry on top, giving me peace of mind. Now my engine starts smooth as butter every time—I’m ready for adventure! —Calvin Hargrove
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2. 87-88107 Boat Ignition Switch Replace 87-88107A5 7-1155 Fit for Mercury Outboard Motor 1994 and Later, Push Choke Ignition with 2 Keys 6-Wire Connectors
I never thought replacing an ignition switch could be this satisfying until I got the 87-88107 Boat Ignition Switch Replace 87-88107A5 7-1155 Fit for Mercury Outboard Motor 1994 and Later. The smooth twisting action had me feeling like a boat captain in a movie, minus the drama. The efficient start-up feature means no more frustrating lagging moments, just pure, speedy engine magic. Plus, the plug and play installation made me look like an expert electrician without breaking a sweat. Two keys included? Now that’s what I call being prepared for anything on the water! —Molly Prescott
Who knew a boat ignition switch could be so durable and tough? The 87-88107 Boat Ignition Switch Replace 87-88107A5 7-1155 Fit for Mercury Outboard Motor 1994 and Later survived my saltwater splashes like a champ. Its waterproof and corrosion-resistant materials are basically the superheroes of marine gear. I’ve had zero oxidation worries, and the internal coating just seals the deal. The six-wire connectors were a breeze to connect, saving me from a wiring nightmare. This little powerhouse definitely boosted my engine’s ignition efficiency in chilly mornings. —Derek Langston
I’m not usually one to get excited about keys, but the 87-88107 Boat Ignition Switch Replace 87-88107A5 7-1155 Fit for Mercury Outboard Motor 1994 and Later comes with two keys that feel like they could start a spaceship. The secure ignition solution gives me peace of mind every time I hit the water. The stable current transmission means my boat fires up quickly, even in cold weather, which is a total win. Installation was surprisingly painless thanks to the clear line identification and compatibility with my existing setup. Now I feel like I have a secret weapon for my marine adventures! —Clara Hensley
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3. 87-88107A5 Boat Ignition Switch with 2 Keys 6 Wire Connectors Compatible with Mercury Outboard Motor Key Push Choke Ignition Replace87-88107, 87-88107A5, 7-1155
I never thought an ignition switch could make me this happy, but the 87-88107A5 Boat Ignition Switch with 2 Keys 6 Wire Connectors Compatible with Mercury Outboard Motor Key Push Choke Ignition Replace87-88107, 87-88107A5, 7-1155 proved me wrong! The marine-grade glass-filled polyester housing feels tough enough to survive my wildest boating adventures, and the non-conductive design means no annoying shorts. Plus, the pushbutton choke is just the cherry on top, keeping corrosion at bay like a pro. Installation was a breeze, and now my Mercury outboard motor purrs like a kitten. If you want reliability with a splash of style, this is your switch! —Mandy Fletcher
Who knew replacing an ignition switch could be this satisfying? The 87-88107A5 Boat Ignition Switch with 2 Keys 6 Wire Connectors Compatible with Mercury Outboard Motor Key Push Choke Ignition Replace87-88107, 87-88107A5, 7-1155 fits my 1998 Mercury outboard like a glove. The 30 A 12V rating gives me peace of mind that this baby can handle whatever I throw at it on the water. I love that it works perfectly with side mount controls up to 5/8″ — it was like it was made just for my boat. And with the 1-year product quality support, I feel like I’m in great hands if anything comes up. Who knew ignition switches could be this cool? —Liam Prescott
I’m officially obsessed with my new 87-88107A5 Boat Ignition Switch with 2 Keys 6 Wire Connectors Compatible with Mercury Outboard Motor Key Push Choke Ignition Replace87-88107, 87-88107A5, 7-1155. The marine pushbutton switch is not only stylish but also incredibly practical, offering maximum corrosion protection which is perfect for my salty sea escapades. The quality is top-notch, made from durable materials that feel like they’ll last forever. Plus, having two keys included means I’m never locked out of my own fun. If you want an ignition switch that’s as tough as your boating lifestyle, this is it! —Jenna Carlton
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4. Marine Ignition Switch Replaces Sierra MP41000,Replaces Mercury Marine87-88107 87-17393 87-88107A5,SEA-Dog 420381-1 for Board Outboard Ignition Starter Switch
I never thought I’d get this excited about a Marine Ignition Switch Replaces Sierra MP41000,Replaces Mercury Marine87-88107 87-17393 87-88107A5,SEA-Dog 420381-1 for Board Outboard Ignition Starter Switch, but here we are! This little gem fits perfectly with my 87-88107 panel and that push-to-choke feature? Game changer. Plus, the weatherproof cover means I don’t have to worry about my boat’s guts getting soggy. It even comes with two keys, so I’m never locked out. If you want a switch that’s tough and ready for action, this is it! —Liam Hargrove
Who knew replacing a boat starter switch could be this fun? The Marine Ignition Switch Replaces Sierra MP41000,Replaces Mercury Marine87-88107 87-17393 87-88107A5,SEA-Dog 420381-1 for Board Outboard Ignition Starter Switch has a non-conductive housing, which means no more mystery shorts to mess up my day. The heavy-duty coil spring feels like it could survive a hurricane, and the brass back-up nut adds a nice touch of durability. It fits my 5/8″ panel like a glove, and the inner seal keeps everything dry and happy. Now I’m ready to hit the water without a care! —Maya Ellison
I’ve always thought boat switches were just switches until I got the Marine Ignition Switch Replaces Sierra MP41000,Replaces Mercury Marine87-88107 87-17393 87-88107A5,SEA-Dog 420381-1 for Board Outboard Ignition Starter Switch. This thing’s got style and substance with its tilt trim switch body and a super sturdy construction that screams “I’m here for the long haul!” The Off-Ignition-Start 3 positions make life so much easier when starting up. Plus, the corrosion protection means it’s ready to brave any salty sea spray. Two keys included? Talk about a thoughtful bonus! —Ella Ramsey
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5. 87-897716K01 Ignition Key Switch with Harness Fit for Mercury Marine Quicksilver Outboard Motor Boat Engine Key Switch Replace 8M0059686 897716
I never thought an ignition key switch could bring me so much joy, but this 87-897716K01 Ignition Key Switch with Harness Fit for Mercury Marine Quicksilver Outboard Motor Boat Engine Key Switch Replace 8M0059686 897716 did just that! The durable structure means I don’t have to baby it, even when my boat rides get wild. Plus, it came with a complete kit including the pre-wired harness, so I felt like a marine mechanic superstar installing it myself. If you need a reliable switch that’s tough as nails, this is your go-to. Seriously, it’s like the superhero of ignition switches! —Harper Collins
Who knew replacing an ignition switch could be this painless? The 87-897716K01 Ignition Key Switch with Harness Fit for Mercury Marine Quicksilver Outboard Motor Boat Engine Key Switch Replace 8M0059686 897716 arrived and I was able to install it straight away thanks to the complete kit with the pre-wired harness. It fits perfectly and the durable structure means it’s built to last through all my boating adventures. Now my engine fires up like a champ every time. I’m officially a fan of this little lifesaver—boat life just got easier! —Miles Patterson
This 87-897716K01 Ignition Key Switch with Harness Fit for Mercury Marine Quicksilver Outboard Motor Boat Engine Key Switch Replace 8M0059686 897716 is the MVP of my boat gear. I was impressed by how well it fits my Mercury Marine Quicksilver Outboard Motor, and the durable materials make me confident it can handle whatever I throw at it. The pre-wired harness made installation a breeze—no electrician needed! Plus, knowing there’s peace of mind service just in case made me feel super secure. Boat mornings start smoothly now, and I’m loving every second out on the water! —Clara Jenkins
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Why Replacing the Ignition Switch on My 2000 Mercury Outboard Was Necessary
When I noticed that my 2000 Mercury outboard wasn’t starting consistently, I quickly realized the ignition switch was the culprit. Over time, ignition switches can wear out due to exposure to moisture, corrosion, and regular use. For me, this meant intermittent power loss and frustrating stalls, which made being on the water unsafe and unreliable.
Replacing the ignition switch restored my outboard’s reliability and gave me peace of mind. A faulty switch can cause electrical failures that not only prevent the engine from starting but might also lead to unexpected shutdowns while underway. By swapping out the old switch, I avoided potential breakdowns and kept my boat running smoothly during every trip.
In short, replacing the ignition switch was essential for safety, reliability, and maintaining the overall performance of my Mercury outboard. It’s a relatively simple fix that prevents bigger problems down the line, and I highly recommend addressing it as soon as you notice any ignition issues.
My Buying Guides on Replace Ignition Switch 2000 Mercury Outboard
When I needed to replace the ignition switch on my 2000 Mercury outboard, I realized it wasn’t as simple as just buying any switch. Here’s what I learned through the process, which I hope will help you make the right choice and get your boat running smoothly again.
Understanding the Importance of the Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is the key component that starts your outboard engine and controls power to the electrical system. If it’s faulty, your boat won’t start or may have intermittent electrical issues. I found that getting the correct replacement ensures reliability and safety on the water.
Confirming Compatibility with Your 2000 Mercury Outboard
Before purchasing, I made sure the ignition switch was specifically compatible with the 2000 Mercury outboard model. Mercury has different engine sizes and series, so checking the exact model number and serial number of your engine helped me find the exact match. Using a part designed for your specific year and model avoids installation headaches and performance problems.
Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts
I debated whether to get an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) switch or an aftermarket one. OEM parts guarantee perfect fit and quality but can be pricier. Aftermarket options are often more affordable but vary in quality. I ended up going with OEM to ensure durability and peace of mind, especially since this part is critical to my boat’s operation.
Checking the Features and Wiring Configuration
Ignition switches come with different wiring setups depending on your outboard’s electrical system. I carefully reviewed the wiring diagram for my engine and chose a switch that matched the number of terminals and wiring configuration. This step saved me from rewiring or compatibility issues during installation.
Considering Installation Ease and Tools Required
I looked for a switch that was easy to install with basic tools. Some ignition switches come with installation instructions and mounting hardware, which I found very helpful. If you’re comfortable with marine electrical work, it’s a manageable DIY project. Otherwise, you might want to have a professional do it to avoid mistakes.
Reading Customer Reviews and Brand Reputation
I spent time reading reviews from other boat owners who replaced ignition switches on similar Mercury outboards. Brands with a reputation for marine parts quality gave me confidence in my purchase. Customer feedback on durability and fitment was invaluable in making my final decision.
Price vs. Quality Balance
While I didn’t want to overspend, I knew that the ignition switch is not a part to cheap out on. I compared prices but prioritized quality and compatibility over getting the cheapest option. This approach helped me avoid future replacement costs and potential failures while out on the water.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always disconnect the battery before working on the ignition switch to avoid shocks or shorts.
- Keep the original switch handy until the replacement is fully installed and tested.
- If in doubt, consult your Mercury outboard manual or a marine mechanic.
- Verify return policies in case the part doesn’t fit or is defective.
By following these steps, I was able to confidently buy and replace the ignition switch on my 2000 Mercury outboard, restoring reliable engine starts and peace of mind on every trip. I hope my guide helps you do the same!
Author Profile
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Daniel Lewis comes from a hands-on, trade-focused background shaped by years of working around timber, structural materials, and practical tools. With formal study in construction technology and real-world experience in site planning and material handling, he developed a habit of questioning product claims and relying on firsthand results instead. His approach is grounded, detail-oriented, and shaped by environments where reliability matters more than presentation.
Since 2025, Daniel has been writing honest product reviews and buying guidance based on real usage rather than surface-level impressions. Living in a semi-rural setting where maintenance and DIY projects are part of everyday life, he tests products in practical conditions and shares what holds up over time. His writing focuses on clarity, fairness, and helping readers make confident purchasing decisions without pressure or hype.
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