Cole Hersee Ignition Kill Switches

Cole Hersee Ignition Kill Switches: Proven Control for Demanding Applications

When an engine needs to stop — and stay stopped — the switch doing that job has to work every single time. Cole Hersee has built its century-long reputation on exactly that kind of uncompromising reliability. Ignition kill switches represent one of the most fundamental safety and control components in any vehicle or powersport electrical system, and Cole Hersee brings the same demanding standards to this category that it applies across its entire lineup of heavy-duty switching products.

A Legacy Built on Heavy-Duty Switching Expertise

Founded in Boston in 1924, Cole Hersee has spent a century as a pioneer in heavy-duty vehicle electrical products. The brand collaborates on core industry standards and today supplies over 2,000 products to the construction, agriculture, military, marine, and commercial vehicle sectors. That depth of experience means that when Cole Hersee engineers an ignition kill switch, it is designed to perform in the real-world environments those industries demand — not just under laboratory conditions.

What Sets Cole Hersee Kill Switches Apart

Cole Hersee ignition and magneto switches — including those configured for kill/off operation — are engineered with several key design features that distinguish them from generic alternatives:

• Multiple actuation options: Switches can be actuated by a coded key and tumbler lock, Cole Hersee's patented Hencol keyed lock system, or a lever design available in military, short-lever, and long-lever configurations — offering the right interface for any platform.
• Magneto kill functionality: Certain models are specifically designed so the OFF position grounds the magneto circuit, making them ideally suited for small engines, powersports, and marine outboard applications where magneto ignition systems are standard.
• Marine-grade construction: Cole Hersee offers marine construction variants built with rugged brass housings and non-corrosive materials, including O-ring seals in the base and stem, to resist moisture, salt, and vibration in harsh environments.
• Broad circuit compatibility: Switches support one, two, or three low-voltage DC circuit configurations, making them adaptable far beyond traditional automotive use — from marine panels to agricultural and construction equipment.
• Secure mounting standards: Threaded stem mounting designs (including 3/4-20 and 1"-24 threaded stems) and threaded tab terminals with screw wire connections ensure solid, rattle-free installations that hold up to vibration and heavy use.
• ISO 9001-certified manufacturing: Cole Hersee's quality management certification means every switch is built to a consistent, audited standard — critical for OEM integrators and professional repair technicians alike.

Who Should Use Cole Hersee Ignition Kill Switches

Cole Hersee ignition kill switches are a go-to solution for a wide range of users. Marine technicians rely on them for outboard and inboard engine panels where salt air demands corrosion-proof hardware. Powersports and small-engine mechanics trust the magneto-grounding designs for ATVs, motorcycles, and small utility engines. Commercial vehicle builders and heavy equipment OEMs specify Cole Hersee products for their combination of proven durability and broad application flexibility. Even DIY restorers working on vintage trucks or custom builds benefit from the brand's straightforward, well-documented wiring configurations.

Whether you are replacing a worn OEM switch or specifying components for a new build, Cole Hersee ignition kill switches deliver the dependable off-state control that safety-critical applications require. Browse the full selection of ignition kill switches or explore the complete Cole Hersee catalog to find the right switching solution for your application.