lost optimax key

[Navy Bob]

I have a 2001 Sea Doo Utopia 185 with the 200 hp Merc Optimax engine. I've lost my key and lanyard. I don't believe it was a DESS key, just plain metal key with lanyard attached. Called dealer and key doesn't seem to be available, although lanyard is. Any ideas how can I get another key?

[150aintenuff]

If it's a merc ignition switch there is a letter etched into the center hub. That will narrow it down to 1 of 4 keys. Here are 20 keys available. 1a-f through 4c-f

[150aintenuff]

Keys are most defiantly available they average 5-10.00 each

[Navy Bob]

I took some close-up pix of the cylinder pulled out of the hole, but can't attach them for some reason. Can't see anything on the center hub, but on the outer rim, bottom edge of the cylinder are the numbers 041 and 2A (or 24, hard to tell if it's A or 4). On the top edge is an "X." If 2A is correct on the bottom edge, that fits in with the numbering scheme you describe. That may be enough info to go to a dealer with. Thanks for the help.

[Navy Bob]

Thanks for the help. Now have my new key in hand. Local southern Marylanders also helped me out: Tim DiGennaro, a retired Mercury mechanic - http://timsclassicoutboards.homestead.com/ and Reliable Marine in Solomons - http://www.reliablemarineonline.com/. Tim didn't have one, but told me where to get a "2A" - at Reliable Marine, which is only 20 minutes from where I work. Went there during lunch hour and bought one for $1.06. Happy ending.