ignition switch,... on a diesel?

[nonmember]

Why does my diesel engine have an ignition switch?
I don't want the unnecessary complication of a keyswitch anyway, so that can go... there's a separate starter button...do I even need the "ignition" switch? This is a basic sort of boat but I want it more basic still, so I wondered please could any of you guys list the functions of a switch on the control panel, perhaps in reducing order of indispensability?
I have a separate distribution panel with about eight switches on it, and there are battery switches...so, enough with the switches already, this is a Thames Bawley not the ISS. -anyone?

 

[DownWest]

It would help if you gave us the type of engine.
The key switch usually activâtes the alternator and on some engines there are fuel solenoids and preheaters. You could put these onto toggle switches and push buttons, but the key switch does all these functions in one. Plus, you can immobilise the engine, for safety reasons, by removing the key. ( depending on the engine)

 

[Tranona]

Welcome to the forum

If the key offends then you can replace it with another type of switch. However, as explained it is nothing to do with ignition as in petrol engines but to turn on the electrical systems of the engine. You could of course replace the whole engine with an air cooled hand start like a Lister then you would not need any sort of electrical panel, just a fuel tap.

 

[Woodlouse]

are you saying you have a key, ignition switch and start button?

A fairly common set up for a keyless diesel is a switch for the engine electrics, then a three way rocker switch, one way would be preheat, the other to start.

Would your ignition switch actually be preheat?

 

[jerrytug]

Please post some photos and history of your boat. I have been on Mona, and seen Doris in Gillingham. Bawley's are great! cheers Jerry

 

[Tranona]

are you saying you have a key, ignition switch and start button?

A fairly common set up for a keyless diesel is a switch for the engine electrics, then a three way rocker switch, one way would be preheat, the other to start.

Would your ignition switch actually be preheat?

More common is a key and a button as on countless Yanmars, or a multi position key that does all the functions of starting and stopping. Common option now is a keyless system as on my last 2 Volvos which are useful if the panel is in the cockpit. On my new one the on/off switch also activates the glow plugs if needed and the start button won't work until the heating is complete. Stop button operates a solenoid and on/off button isolates the electrics.