J/30 Class Association Forums J/30 Forum The Boat, Sails and Equipment Ignition switch replacement?

I second that. Do you place the battery switch on "All" and notice a difference? Also check your return path cable from the engine block to the negative terminal on the battery. A poor connection here will also display a similar problem. You can use jumper cables to test the connection.

Best check on the battery is to get a hydrometer and measure specific gravity of each cell. If maintenance free type, consider taking the battery out and load testing at an auto service center. A weak cell will display the symptoms you are seeing.

The push button switch powers the starting solenoid that engages the drive motor and closes main contacts between the battery and starter motor windings. If the push button switch was shot, the solenoid would chatter or not engage at all. The heavy current to the starter does not flow through the push button. That is not your problem.