Volvo D4 Ignition Key Failure.

[peterb26]

The ignition key on my D4 engine is the standard volvo one - with 3 positions:-

9 o/clock SWITCH OFF
3 o/clock SWITCH ON
6 o/clock (approx) START

Today, when I turned the key from 3 o/c to 6 o/c - the whole thing rotated for pretty much 3/4 of a turn and nothing happened. Tried again and got a repeat performance.
Tried again and then got the START position and the engine fired.

The boat is under warranty, but can anyone tell me if its just a case of tightening up where the ignition key is mounted underneath the dashboard - or is it more serious than this?

Lastly - can I jump start a D4 with a pair of Jump Leads from the battery to the starter motor if I cant get the START position on the key to work?

Many thanks as always.

 

[volvopaul]

sounds like its just loose in the dash panel, nothing fancy about switch or installation i fitted one last week to phantom 46, tighten outer black plastic ring with suitable large jaw pliers not too tight as to damage ring.

 

[Bergman]

I would think carefully about jump leads to starter motor.

Certainly this may start the engine, assuming that it is a simple diesel, but it will not energise the alternator which may well result in damage to the alternator.

A better way would be to "hot wire" the ignition.

Literally a short length of wire with a croc clip on each end that connects the contacts of the ignition switch that are connected by turning the key. Thats how they pinch cars, after smashing the steering lock.

Probably best of all to simply tighten the fixing nut, and and curse the builder for not having mad the hole with a flat to engage that on the body of the lock.

 

[peterb26]

Thanks to both of you for that. I will go and investigate today.

Paul - it didnt feel as if the outer black ring was turning - more like the inner metal part turning.

Its a bit of a tedious job to get at the back of dashboard but its blowing a hooley here today so its a good day to do it.

 

[peterb26]

Paul - when I put my best pair of glasses on I could see that you were exactly correct. Many thanks. Repaired in a few seconds.

 

[duncan]

I agree that you need the ignition 'hot' but if, as apparently might have been the case here, the ignition was on but it ws the next bit (starter) that was the problem then the jump should be fine.

Definitely not something to be done without due consideration as you highlight.