I have 2004 f-150(STX), old body. I believe the chip that is the key is called ECM. Anyway when I had my RS1000(Autopage) installed the shop said my extra key had to be kept(inside ignition) for everything to work. Is this true????

 

Not that I am aware of. My remote start does not have a key anywhere. There is some sort of by-pass for the trucks with a transponder key.

 

In my case, it's true. I have a Viper 5900 with remote start. I had to cough up a key so that the remote start feature would work. Install was done by a friend of mine with over 30 years exp. in car stereo/alarm installs.

 

No your truck is running on a PATS system. And your key should be in a bypass box or you should be using a 555SW.

 

555SW. Is this easy to use? Is in similar to using Transponder interface??

 

Very. And all you need is two keys for programming. Thats it. The box will act as the third.

 

Your not just saying that because your MECP are you?

 

1) Insert Key 1. (pre-programmed)
2) Turn to On.
3) Wait for security light to go off
4) Within 5 seconds, Insert Key 2 (pre-programmed)
5) Turn to On.
6) Wait for security light to go off
7) Within 5 seconds, Rem Start truck (or turn car on with key 3)

Its that hard. I have a hard time doing it and im MECP.... LOL. Its really easy!!

 

From what that says it seems easy. I will keep that in mind the next time I have remote start installed(and dont want to loose a key).

When wiring alarm to engine block, can electric tape be used?

 

To Engine Block???

 

Maybe Im calling it the wrong name. Sorry I didnt install it. But still when it is wired to engine, is it safe to be wrapped in electric tape(the connections)??

 

Its sounds like your installers try going the cheap way out..He has a key hidden under your steering column to give it the signal it needs to start...If you had a bypass you could have you key back.

 

Yeah, I know that now. I dont think they have the 555sw. Just the mob. interface. Im still thinking about getting the 555sw anyway and getting my extra key back. Not because I need the key but I just dont trust it being there. They gave me some speech about how it would take a theif a while to find it but...

 

As long as it is taped up right... Its all good.

 

The 555sw is just as easy to use to steal your truck as a key is.. all you need is to get 1 wire off of the 555sw and a flat screwdriver for your ignition. So IMO I'd rather just order another key online and use that 3rd key with a relay. You don't even have to cut the key to program it, so if a thief does happen to find the key, all they got is a blank chipped key. of course there are ways to use that blank key to start the truck with some brainpower.. but if some1 really wants to steal your truck they WILL find a way regardless, this way is just cheaper for the owner VVV