problems with ignition key assembly warning beep

[speedyalex]

I have a 2001 sunsetter with a recently developed problem with a constant beep from the ignition key assembly. Here is what happens: I start the boat and get the normal beep as the instruments turn on, it goes off as normal after the boat starts then 5 seconds later it constantly beeps during normal driving. Obviously, very annoying. The boat is running well. All gauges look OK. Engine oil OK, etc. I tried to disconnect the battery for 5 minutes and then reconnect no luck. I have wiggled the key without any change. I have tried 2 different keys, with the same result. No info in the Malibu manual that I can find. I think this is just a warning signal to let me know the key is engaged. I suspect it may be a "short" in the ignition key assembly. Any thoughts or help would be appreciated.

[dhcomp]

I have a 2001 sunsetter with a recently developed problem with a constant beep from the ignition key assembly. Here is what happens: I start the boat and get the normal beep as the instruments turn on, it goes off as normal after the boat starts then 5 seconds later it constantly beeps during normal driving. Obviously, very annoying. The boat is running well. All gauges look OK. Engine oil OK, etc. I tried to disconnect the battery for 5 minutes and then reconnect no luck. I have wiggled the key without any change. I have tried 2 different keys, with the same result. No info in the Malibu manual that I can find. I think this is just a warning signal to let me know the key is engaged. I suspect it may be a "short" in the ignition key assembly. Any thoughts or help would be appreciated.

I know what you mean, our 01 with a bazillion hours does the same on occasion. Havne't figure out how to fix it, it just comes and goes.

[RTS]

I would suspect a faulty oil pressure switch. If this were the case, you'd still get the oil pressure indication on the dash guage (it's fed by the oikl pressure sending unit.)

[WaveMake'nLSV]

I would caution you to NOT be passive and assume it is just "annoying"....which it IS.

My money is on the oil pressure switch. It is normally located on a "T" very NEAR the oil filter. The sending unit is usually the ROUND about 1.25" or so diameter, the OTHER one is the oil pressure switch. A simple check is to just unplug the switch and if the beep quits...BINGO. The other check is to unplug the sending unit and the gauge should go to zero and alarm also. The switch is activated on startup due to low pressure and then when the the presure rises it goes off. Problem is that it gets stuck in the LOW position. I just did this on my boat...took 5 min and a $30 switch. DONE.

I would suspect a faulty oil pressure switch. If this were the case, you'd still get the oil pressure indication on the dash guage (it's fed by the oikl pressure sending unit.)

[speedyalex]

I would caution you to NOT be passive and assume it is just "annoying"....which it IS.

My money is on the oil pressure switch. It is normally located on a "T" very NEAR the oil filter. The sending unit is usually the ROUND about 1.25" or so diameter, the OTHER one is the oil pressure switch. A simple check is to just unplug the switch and if the beep quits...BINGO. The other check is to unplug the sending unit and the gauge should go to zero and alarm also. The switch is activated on startup due to low pressure and then when the the presure rises it goes off. Problem is that it gets stuck in the LOW position. I just did this on my boat...took 5 min and a $30 switch. DONE.

I would suspect a faulty oil pressure switch. If this were the case, you'd still get the oil pressure indication on the dash guage (it's fed by the oikl pressure sending unit.)

Thanks for all of the info. I'll check the oil pressure switch and get back to the forum.

[dlb]

Can you get the switch from an auto parts place? If so what part numbers for NAPA, Advance Auto Parts, CarQuest etc?

I know you can order them from Discount Inboard Marine.

Thanks.

[WaveMake'nLSV]

I mean, in hindside, you likely could. It is just an oil pressure switch for a 5.7 L chevy block...although I have never seen a cross ref, I bet there is one.

Can you get the switch from an auto parts place? If so what part numbers for NAPA, Advance Auto Parts, CarQuest etc?

I know you can order them from Discount Inboard Marine.

Thanks.

[99response]

To echo what Scott said, your ignition key does not have a beeper or any senors in it.

The beeping is an alarm on your engine, low voltage, overheat, or most likekly oil pressure.

-Chris

[dlb]

I have asked about a switch for a 5.7 chevy at the local auto parts place and they said they needed a part number.....

[jgouveia3]

i just asked at the local NAPA, and they said they couldn't match it without the part number because of amp readings or something. I then went to a small automotive store, and he pulled one off the shelf, but it had a different connector. i just ended up ordering from the dealer (since I didn't see it on SKIDIM). For now, i am just running with the wire disconnected.