GM 4WD Pickup

toneyp wrote:
Thanks. Hadn't imagined where that could stick into cab in a useable location.

ToneyP,
You're welcome Sir. I used that same exact switch as a theft deterrent for our '04 Jeep Rubicon. I simply looked around for suitable place to mount it that, was not TOO inconvenient for me to access the little red key. I opted for mounting to the firewall, somewhat close to the brake pedal, on the left side of it.

Now, when it came time for me to exit the jeep after driving it someplace, I stepped out of the Jeep, very nonchalantly reached in next to the brake pedal and, turned that little key 90 degrees and removed it. That little move takes about 1-2 seconds and, from an observers stand point, (or possible Jeep thief in waiting) it looks like you're picking something up off the floor board of the jeep like a coin or what ever.

I will admit though, I did once in a while, fail to remember to put it back in when I re-entered the Jeep. I'd go to start the jeep and, all I'd get is a "click-click-click". Kind-a like a dead battery. That was the solenoid trying to kick in but, there was no major power going to the starter because that key was not in place, providing for the link in the two major cables. It worked absolutely flawlessly as a theft deterrent and at the time, I paid a whopping $10.95 for that same switch.
Scott

Thanks. Hadn't imagined where that could stick into cab in a useable location.

toneyp wrote:
RoyB, GM says that is the method. Looks like it began with '14s when electric power steering was added to the truck line.

FIREUP, I have used those on ATVs but was trying to avoid popping hood. I see some that are actually a relay so small remote switch in cab trips/connects unit near battery itself.

Wondered if anyone had experience with them.

Toney,
You don't have to "Pop the hood". You see, that switch is mounted basically against the fire wall but, the key section protrudes into cab. If done correctly, all you'll see, maybe close to the brake pedal or, where ever you mount it, is the key receptacle. There is no need to raise the hood. I've got buddies that mounted it in the center console. You open the console lid and, look down and, you'll see the little red key.

This is the simplest remedy to your issue. Using a relay is nice but, it involves quite a bit more wiring and such. Your choice.
Scott

RoyB, GM says that is the method. Looks like it began with '14s when electric power steering was added to the truck line.

FIREUP, I have used those on ATVs but was trying to avoid popping hood. I see some that are actually a relay so small remote switch in cab trips/connects unit near battery itself.

Wondered if anyone had experience with them.

toneyp wrote:
Just traded to new pickup. Was disappointed to find out that now you have to disconn battery to tow after last 5 years of shift transaxle to neutral, put in park, lock doors, get out and go. Anyone suing a remote battery disconnect to keep from having to go under hood every time? If so, what kind?

toneyp,
You are not the only one here with thoughts of that issue. Many are not happy about it but, unless GM has some sort of retrofit system (that is if they were even thinking about it) I guess all the owners of the '15s and newer (I think this "disconnect thing" started with the '15s, not sure)will have to deal with disconnecting the negative cable if and when, they plan on towing it.

Now, with all that being said, if it were me that had to deal with this issue, one of the first ways I'd look at handling it would be to purchase and install, one of these:

Battery Disconnect Switch

I've installed these before and, they're quite simple to install. And, all that's needed to be done is, re-route the battery negative cable to one side and, put a new cable from the switch to the negative post on the battery. Done!


I doubt you'll "fry" any alternators or, do any damage to any portion of your electrical system. I kind-a suspect GM knows what they're doing when they set up a system like yours and many others. The really good part about using that type of switch is, the red key is removable and, that makes for a great theft deterrent of your vehicle.
Scott

I am towing a 2014 4WD Silverado since there are so many problems with the 14/15 Jeep Cherokees. You are right, they tell you to disconnect the negative. It is a hassle, but so far no real problem with any electronics. I have not been using a Brake Buddy, etc., but am thinking about it, so how would that work since you have to have power?

I don't think I would want to pull a battery connection from a new truck... All of the electronics will be shut down and many things will lose their settings...

I did that on a my previous truck which had the alternator go south on me. When I got it all back going again everything worked pretty good but the idle was way low - Around 450 rpms I think it was. It would die at a stop sines if I didn't keep my foot on the gas pedal... The book said it would relearn the sittings but after a couple of weeks mine stayed the same. I had to take to the Ford House and cost me $90 on their machine to reset things... Took about 10 minutes of effort...

Roy Ken