I have a 2000 C36 (hull 1998) and my ignition switch broke. Plastic shaft broke & tumbler came out. Just ordered a new one from Catalina Direct.
However, I was just informed by CD they are back ordered & it could take up to 4 - 5 weeks for delivery....ouch!
I see Defender has a Cole Hersee M-850 3 position switch which looks like it may fit & work.
Both are 3 position ignition switches.
Has anyone had any success in replacing the switch with alternatives to Cataline Direct?
See some on West Marine also, but not sure.
Tom
ObLaDi ObLaDa C36, MkII, Hull #1998
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Tom Runiewicz
ObLaDi ObLaDa
Catalina 36 MkII, Wing Keel, Tall Rig
Hull #1998
North East, MD
Update. I found a switch on the West Marine website, Sierra 3- position starter switch, model #487744. By the picture it looks like the exact one Catalina Direct is selling, but not really sure. Wonder if CD is getting their's from the same vendor, Sierra.
Any first hand knowledge would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Tom
ObLaDi ObLaDa
Tom Runiewicz
ObLaDi ObLaDa
Catalina 36 MkII, Wing Keel, Tall Rig
Hull #1998
North East, MD
As long as it fits, this is not a big deal.
Just to be clear, Catalina Direct is not associated with Catalina Yachts. They are a great source of parts (and advice), and I've given them plenty of business over the years, but if you've found a similar switch elsewhere, I see no reason not to go with it.
Sometimes, you can get the same parts directly from their suppliers (Garhauer) at a better price. On the other hand, sometimes they are able to supply parts that no one else -- even Catalina Yachts -- has anymore. For example, they provided me with a new prop strut casting a few years ago; CY no longer had it and sent me to their original supplier, who quoted a price that was maybe 50% higher than Catalina Direct.
Frankly, you could probably find a suitable switch at an autoparts store (although may not hold up too well over time in a marine environment).
Matthew Chachère
s/v ¡Que Chévere!
(Formerly 1985 C36 MKI #466 tall rig fin keel M25)
2006 Catalina Morgan 440 #30.
Homeported in eastern Long Island, NY
Agree with Chachere, the ignition switch is nothing special to Catalina, it's just a common auto / boat part. I bought my replacement (the brass version) from Catalina Direct. Their value-add is that they've found which parts fit in the OEM spots with no modifications. If you buy from Amazon or an auto parts store, fitting it is on you. Make sure the dimensions are correct (it will fit in the hole), has a waterproofing rubber boot, and is three-position - off / on / spring intermediate (fuel pump & glow plugs).
John Parsons
"Water Music" 1999 Catalina 36 Mk II - Hull 1771
Tall Rig, Fin Keel
Bay City, MI, USA
Hi Friends,
Sorry I am late to the party on this one. I too have the same problem. Whilst sailing along recently the Admiral mounted the port stern perch to take command. At some point during the Admiral's stint, a 'Topsider had found it's way to the ignition key and snapped it off below the surface of the inner barrel. I was able to manipulate the switch with a small screw driver. In my spare parts kit I have a new ignition switch and key (from Catalina Direct, brass). I went to replace the switch but I found that the original switch has huge ears and screws for mounting the wires. The new switch has tiny litlle ears and screws. They are quite a bit smaller. I have no pictures right now next time down to the boat I will snap some photos. The broken key and switch appears to be original equipment from 1989. Anybody else run across this difference in tab size? Is it OK to adapt the new part? Our switch is three position which has an intermittant position for Glow Plugs. Thanks evryone for the collective wisdom on this Forum. Truly amazing.
Cheers,
PO
Paul O,
S/V Pelican
1989 Catalina 36 Mk I #894
Oceanside, California
Hi all. I have a C36, 1989. I bought all new standing rigging from Catalina Direct and they sent me the wrong backstay materials. I have tried for 6 months to get some satisfaction from them and they simply ignore me. I just can't in good conscious send them any more of my money. Are there any alternatives to CD for C36 equipment/parts? I need a new control panel, cushions, etc. Many thanks! Bob
Besides making your own cushions and panel (not hard) an upholstery shop can make your cushions. Tapp can plastic can make a engine panel from ABS sheet (take them your old one). And any rigger in your area can make up a backstay.
I had all my standing rigging and lifelines done 2yrs ago it was about $4.5k.
my engine panel replacement was $3
Les & Trish Troyer
Mahalo
Everett, WA
1983 C-36 Hull #0094
C-36 MK 1 Technical Editor.
Commodore