Two questions for you guys. By the way thanks for the ceiling stars answers. I'm not looking forward to drilling holes in my new boat, but it must be done.
Anyway, does anyone know how I can convert shorepower into my DC driven electronics, or charge my batts by shore power?
Now the bad question. I broke a key off in my ignition, got it out, but in the process, actually broke the plastic cylinder "tumbler". Long story short, I can now start my boat with a screwdriver, and the ignition is not secured to the instrument panel anymore. Can I buy this part? and if so where?

Thanks,
Rookie Owner

Sorry to hear about your problem. If you're in the midwest, you might try Crowley's Yacht Yard in Chicago. Mack Boring perhaps in New Jersey (see the Equipment Suppliers back on the main page).

I'm basically a klutz, and would long ago have broken a key off if someone hadn't shown me a trick. Once the engine is going, you can remove the key on a diesel. I just loop it around something convenient on the panel so I can get it quickly.

I have always been told that the key controls the electrical to the engine. Of course a diesel does not need electric to run bu I always thought that by turning the key off while the engine is running that you could do severe damage to the alternator. I actually hope that I am wrong about that, hopefully future posts will clarify.

You could buy an on-board automatic battery charger like a Guest - available through Boater's World. Jusr hook it up to your shore power and to your batteries, then it would charge your batteries while at the dock and allow you to operate your 12 volt system without having to worry about running down the batteries. Just buy a charger with the output that matches your power consumption.

Why not remove the key switch and use a simple ON-OFF switch without a key?

With the battery switch off, someone wanting to steal the boat would have to break into the cabin to turn the battery on. Once in the cabin a determined theif could start the motor without a key.

With an ON-OFF switch at the control panel, you'll never be caught looking for the key in an emergency - just turn it on.