Vehicle security
 

Unfortunately it looks like I have some people in my new neighborhood paying a little too much attention to my auto and for the first time I'm feeling a need to add some security system(s) to old yeller. I think just a basic remote arm system would do, not interested at all in remote start or unlock. I'm not familiar with modern alarm systems, but here's what I 'think' I need...


- Door switches for all 5 doors (rear hatch). Probably a PITA to install but that's only an initial idea.

- 'Bump' alarm (not sure what it would be called) for if a window breaks or if something is jarred

- Geo-location function like a low track or something similar


Additionally I'd like to install possibly 2 start kill switches. I'm not sure where inline these are normally installed but my impression is that directly in line with the key ignition switch would be common. But then what if someone jumps the starter with a screwdriver...would this type of switch work in that instance? So that leads me to the idea of a second ignition kill switch which would either be wired between the battery and starter motor, or between the starter motor and ground.

And last...security lugs.

So am I over thinking this here? What's your recommendation for what I really need and maybe a good but economic alarm system that can get this done?

Re: Vehicle security
 

Tell us what type of vehicle you're working on and we can give you more help. As far as a kill switch, you want it between the power source and the coil. That makes it more difficult to defeat.

Re: Vehicle security
 

I've had alarm systems in the past...never had a tracker, but the ones I had would read glass break and current draw...they were cheap ones
Sad thing is , if somebody wants it bad enough, theres not much you can do to stop them...

Re: Vehicle security
 

If the main concern is someone taking the vehicle, #1 is park in a place where a wrecker can't easily load it up. Some security cameras pointed at the truck. One or two obvious ones and at least one well hidden. A motion sensitive light as well.

As for on vehicle stuff, as others have said, if the thief wants it, they will take it. The basic make noise alarm is a good start. Sadly, experienced thieves know most of the good hiding spots for kill switches but a kill switch might trip up a kid.

Might see if you can find a dash cam with GPS that you can access via a remote device. Concealed well enough and the thief might miss it on their first pass. Downside is the Internet knows everywhere you drive.

If your security measures make using the vehicle a PITA for you, you will quit using them.

I have seen some tire shops be able to spin off a security lug just by jamming a socket on one hard and firing up the air gun.

Re: Vehicle security
 

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You could also consider an interior hood release handle.

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=458433

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=445343

They aren't for everyone but I am going to install one on my '72 Dually with the Billet grille.

LockDoc

Re: Vehicle security
 

Leon, I cannot access that first link -- it says I do not have permission. Is it just me? :confused:

Re: Vehicle security
 

It's me too Mike. We been bad or something? ;)

Re: Vehicle security
 

Nah, for whatever reason the link is an an administrator only section. Have not got a clue why. I am checking on it.

Re: Vehicle security
 

Me too, I guess I need to go to my corner. :lol::lol:

Re: Vehicle security
 

Looks like your corner will be getting crowded.....:lol:

Re: Vehicle security
 

I have a tracker that I bought on Amazon to track some of my children's late-night excursions. I plan to put it on the Blazer when I get it back on the road. It costs about $20 per month for the service.

Re: Vehicle security
 

At least I won't be lonely.....:lol::lol:

Re: Vehicle security
 

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Try this one. Same thread but it is in the FAQ forum.

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=458433

Sorry about that.....

I also edited my post above.

LockDoc

Re: Vehicle security
 

I suggest a good brand alarm with a battery back-up so cutting the main battery cable doesn't disable it, pinswitches for all doors and the hood, a good shock sensor, and probably most importantly: at minimum three different noisemakers. Sirens with different sounds, the car horn, etc. It is the first indicator a would be thief has that this is not a $99 alarm install. Oh - and HIDE the sirens. I suggest under the wiper cowl. Super loud still and impossible to reach. I like to put one on the inside as well, under the dash where anyone who has opened a door is going to stick their head. Surprise. I did this with a car horn once. It was stupid loud.

What you want is the whole neighborhood to go WHAT THE EFF IS THAT???

Avoid the temptation to add a glass break sensor. They tend to be unreliable. Also avoid the temptation to really jack the sensitivity of the shock sensor up. The more it goes off, the less your neighbors will come look.

The alarm will have a starter kill circuit in it but a separate switch is not a terrible idea. Be careful interrupting the coil wire. For sure it is effective but a bad switch or connection may leave you stranded.

Wheel lugs are always good to protect them. Defeatable, yes, but still a PITA.

If you want to deter someone just rolling it away or onto a flatbed, get a wheel boot. Not expensive and a great deterrent.