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security engine power off switch

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Old 01-14-2004 | 09:33 PM
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Nimrod's Avatar
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From: Central Washington State
security engine power off switch

Howdy, I had installed a switch that switched off the gound to battery connection (on my 93 truck) so the truck could not be started unless it was on. (The switch was hiden) This was handy for anti-theft and after leaving the truck at a trailhead for long periods with no battery draw. My question is if anyone has performed this type of operation on a 03 with the dual batteries? I know people that had their truck and trailer stolen. Any ideas for the new trucks? Thanks, Nimrod
Old 01-14-2004 | 09:59 PM
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You can install a switch in series with the clutch safety switch in a manual to disable the starter. On a auto the wiring for the switch is there in the same location but is jumpered over. I've seen some guys use the cig lighter for their switch. Disconnect the positive from it and wire it so the power runs though the lighter coil when it's depressed. You can then leave the lighter in the out position and the starter is disabled, take the lighter with you if you want more security.

Where 'bouts in Central WA are you. I'm originally from Chelan.
Old 01-14-2004 | 10:02 PM
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Originally posted by infidel
You can install a switch in series with the clutch safety switch in a manual to disable the starter. On a auto the wiring for the switch is there in the same location but is jumpered over. I've seen some guys use the cig lighter for their switch. Disconnect the positive from it and wire it so the power runs though the lighter coil when it's depressed. You can then leave the lighter in the out position and the starter is disabled, take the lighter with you if you want more security.

Where 'bouts in Central WA are you. I'm originally from Chelan.
Now that is a great idea....
Old 01-14-2004 | 10:16 PM
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From: Interior BC
So where are the wires located on an auto and do you know what color they are???
Old 01-15-2004 | 05:45 AM
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Look under the dash where the clutch pedal would be.
There should be a small 2 wire connector with a jumper connected across both sides.
Old 01-15-2004 | 09:18 AM
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From: Central Washington State
Howdy Infidel,
I'm from Cashmere, we get up your way every summer as we launch our 26' sailboat in Lake Chelan and cool off in her fridgid waters. That is such a beutiful area up there! What do you do up there? Oh and does this mod for switching apply to manual trans or just auto? Sound like a good idea.
Thanks, Nimrod
www.nimrodpacks.com (this is what we do here in Cashmere)
Old 01-15-2004 | 10:29 AM
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Nimrod, sent you a PM.
The start disable I described can be done just as easily to a manual or auto.

I'm not going to venture saying what color the wires are because they are one thing that seems to change every year on these trucks. That's why a Dodge service manual for your year truck is great investment.

They're easy to find and check though. On a manual just look under the dash while pushing the clutch and you'll see it, on an auto imagine a clutch there and you'll find the jumper. Pull the jumper on an auto or pull the wire to the switch on an manual and try to start it. If everything works except the starter you've got the right one.
Old 01-15-2004 | 12:59 PM
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A friend of mine did the same sort of wiring as above, but tied it into his window switch. Now to start the car (camero), he must always act like he is rolling up his drivers window.
Old 01-18-2004 | 01:27 AM
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Infidel, Yes I see what you mean, that is a great idea. I may do a little creative wiring. This would be a good theft deterent. I have been a little sceptical of messing with wiring under the dash cause of the acidental deployment of the airbag. I've heard this has been a problem. What do you think?
Nimrod
Old 01-18-2004 | 06:39 AM
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From: Montana
Originally posted by Nimrod
I have been a little sceptical of messing with wiring under the dash cause of the acidental deployment of the airbag. I've heard this has been a problem. What do you think?
Nimrod
I wouldn't be too concerned, just disconnect the batteries and wait 10 minutes before working on any wiring. Don't mess with any of the bright yellow airbag wires and you'll be fine.
Old 01-18-2004 | 07:04 AM
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Originally posted by Nimrod
Infidel, Yes I see what you mean, that is a great idea. I may do a little creative wiring. This would be a good theft deterrent. I have been a little skeptical of messing with wiring under the dash cause of the accidental deployment of the airbag. I've heard this has been a problem. What do you think?
Nimrod
I would highly rec'd that if you are that unsure of under dash wiring to either get an service manual or let someone else do it for you.
Old 01-18-2004 | 07:34 AM
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You shouldn't worry too much about an accidental deployment. This could only happen if you cut into a "hot" wire and nick an air bag module wire at the same time, essentially jumping the module wire.

One of my students did it last year installing a stereo system in his Honda, he woke up on the floor "What happened" Expensive lesson......

Like infidel and spots stated above, disconnect the batterys, wait at minimum 15 minutes, then go ahead and work away. Personally, I disconnect the batteries whenever I work on the electrical system. Also gives me a good excuse to clean them B4 reinstallation.

Just my nickel's worth

Bob
Old 01-20-2004 | 02:14 AM
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I installed a switch that controlled my fuel pump. If I turn it off, the fuel pump doesn't run and the truck dies after a few seconds. Plain and simple.
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