Aftermarket alarm... must kill it !
07-09-2002, 01:25 PM
#1
Racer
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Aftermarket alarm... must kill it !
My name is Rob, and I own a 928...
Last night I spent about a half an hour trying to start the car. After some blood pressure medication kicked in and trying at least a hundred different variations of pushing the buttons on the remote and flipping the little microswitches festooned all over the car... it finally turned over.
That is it, I want this POS of an alarm out of my car! The 928 came with the factory alarm, and that is still in use. The aftermarket alarm has a remote with 2 buttons (I have no idea what the right one does...)and some funky disco LED thing where the digital clock once called home. There are also 2 additional LEDs behind the switches on the center console. A green and a red one. I have never seen the green one work. There is a microbutton hanging by 2 wires from under the steering column and another button on the roof of the glove box, as well as housing a microswitch.
When I get in the car, I have to push the left button on the remote until the disco LED goes out and then the car should start. More often than not, it doesn't and then nothing but flashing LEDs, clicking relays and pushing / toggling of switches and buttons.
I am hesitant to take the car to an alarm specialist because they probably don't have any 928 experience. Would a general Porsche / 928 shop be suitable? The one thing I am really glad about is that the PO's wife took a pair of clippers to the wires of the siren...
Help me, before I hurt myself !
Rob
Last night I spent about a half an hour trying to start the car. After some blood pressure medication kicked in and trying at least a hundred different variations of pushing the buttons on the remote and flipping the little microswitches festooned all over the car... it finally turned over.
That is it, I want this POS of an alarm out of my car! The 928 came with the factory alarm, and that is still in use. The aftermarket alarm has a remote with 2 buttons (I have no idea what the right one does...)and some funky disco LED thing where the digital clock once called home. There are also 2 additional LEDs behind the switches on the center console. A green and a red one. I have never seen the green one work. There is a microbutton hanging by 2 wires from under the steering column and another button on the roof of the glove box, as well as housing a microswitch.
When I get in the car, I have to push the left button on the remote until the disco LED goes out and then the car should start. More often than not, it doesn't and then nothing but flashing LEDs, clicking relays and pushing / toggling of switches and buttons.
I am hesitant to take the car to an alarm specialist because they probably don't have any 928 experience. Would a general Porsche / 928 shop be suitable? The one thing I am really glad about is that the PO's wife took a pair of clippers to the wires of the siren...
Help me, before I hurt myself !
Rob
07-09-2002, 03:34 PM
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Burning Brakes
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Hi Robert,
My aftermarket alarm is a Viper. It is only sold by Circuit City. The brain is installed beneath the instrument pod. With mine you sometimes need to cycle the door lock with the key a few times, as well as setting and turning off the alarm with the remote button, to make it disable the starter kill function. The key trick works sometimes when the instuctions and reset button fail me.
If I press the 2 button, then the 1 button on the remote, the chirp is silenced for the lock or unlock function being performed.
If you can get the model number off of the brain box, you might be able to find a website for the manufacturer. Give them a call for the manual.
An alarm specialty shop can help more with your aftermarket alarm than the Porsche dealer.
<img src="graemlins/burnout.gif" border="0" alt="[burnout]" />
My aftermarket alarm is a Viper. It is only sold by Circuit City. The brain is installed beneath the instrument pod. With mine you sometimes need to cycle the door lock with the key a few times, as well as setting and turning off the alarm with the remote button, to make it disable the starter kill function. The key trick works sometimes when the instuctions and reset button fail me.
If I press the 2 button, then the 1 button on the remote, the chirp is silenced for the lock or unlock function being performed.
If you can get the model number off of the brain box, you might be able to find a website for the manufacturer. Give them a call for the manual.
An alarm specialty shop can help more with your aftermarket alarm than the Porsche dealer.
<img src="graemlins/burnout.gif" border="0" alt="[burnout]" />
07-09-2002, 05:13 PM
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Racer
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Thom,
Really, you would recommend an alarm specialist over a Porsche wrench?
I always assumed that the same disdain for stereo installers, included alarm guys too.
On the other thread regarding the 928 being stolen, there is something mentioned about the alarm wires going to the battery. I know that when I put my new battery in there were some "extra" wires on the positive side. Would one of those be to the alarm? If I disconnect it, would that also take care of it?
I would rather take the entire system out and put in a ignition on/off switch.
Rob <img src="graemlins/wave.gif" border="0" alt="[byebye]" />
Really, you would recommend an alarm specialist over a Porsche wrench?
I always assumed that the same disdain for stereo installers, included alarm guys too.
On the other thread regarding the 928 being stolen, there is something mentioned about the alarm wires going to the battery. I know that when I put my new battery in there were some "extra" wires on the positive side. Would one of those be to the alarm? If I disconnect it, would that also take care of it?
I would rather take the entire system out and put in a ignition on/off switch.
Rob <img src="graemlins/wave.gif" border="0" alt="[byebye]" />
07-09-2002, 06:04 PM
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Burning Brakes
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Hi Rob,
If it carries your brand, the alarm shop will know more about your alarm. Circuit City recommended a shop when I needed a replacement remote. The manufacturer should make the local shop determination.
Perhaps your alarm sensitivity is too high. I was frustrated with mine until I learned more about it. Now, it is useful to unlock doors remotely, and feel secure. Maybe yours is beyond salvage. An alarm shop is equipped with the knowledge to cut it out for you. I installed one once on my RX-7. NEVER AGAIN. Finding the wire attachment points for: headlights, tail-lights, switched power source, starter power, etc. took forever.
If the wires coming from your positive terminal are faded like the originals, they go to the starter and/or other original equipment. I would not deal with that myself. Document the concerns you have, and head to your alarm manufacturer’s recommended shop.
<img src="graemlins/burnout.gif" border="0" alt="[burnout]" />
If it carries your brand, the alarm shop will know more about your alarm. Circuit City recommended a shop when I needed a replacement remote. The manufacturer should make the local shop determination.
Perhaps your alarm sensitivity is too high. I was frustrated with mine until I learned more about it. Now, it is useful to unlock doors remotely, and feel secure. Maybe yours is beyond salvage. An alarm shop is equipped with the knowledge to cut it out for you. I installed one once on my RX-7. NEVER AGAIN. Finding the wire attachment points for: headlights, tail-lights, switched power source, starter power, etc. took forever.
If the wires coming from your positive terminal are faded like the originals, they go to the starter and/or other original equipment. I would not deal with that myself. Document the concerns you have, and head to your alarm manufacturer’s recommended shop.
<img src="graemlins/burnout.gif" border="0" alt="[burnout]" />
07-09-2002, 07:53 PM
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Thom,
Ok... that sounds good. One last "just for the hell of it" questions though...
Regarding the extra wires off of the positive terminal. If I disconnect them all and one by one replace them, that may isolate the alarm unit... correct?
My question is, if I take the power away from the aftermarket alarm... will that simply disable the alarm or will the car refuse to start?
Just wondering... <img src="confused.gif" border="0">
Ok... that sounds good. One last "just for the hell of it" questions though...
Regarding the extra wires off of the positive terminal. If I disconnect them all and one by one replace them, that may isolate the alarm unit... correct?
My question is, if I take the power away from the aftermarket alarm... will that simply disable the alarm or will the car refuse to start?
Just wondering... <img src="confused.gif" border="0">
07-09-2002, 08:10 PM
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Three Wheelin'
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Hello Rob, My name is Donald and I own a 928-
I attacked the aftermarket myself, tracked down every wire which did not come from the factory. That was fairly easy to figure out although it took time. Yards and yards of wiring came out, numerous LEDs, switches,and a brain or two (mine also had front/rear bumper mounted radar detector). I did take out one Bosch relay which had the right P look, but was in a suspicious association.
I also isolated wiring to the battery and removed at least two hot connections (that solved a serious amp leak). I had no problems from the removal, and YMMV, but I will not let an alarm shop, stereo shop, etc. do anything but look at my car in the grocery store parking lot. Until further notice, Bill Labarge and I have a duopoly on messing up or fixing things (you can safely bet on who messes & who fixes) on my car. If nothing else it narrows the field of possibilities and simplifies the action when something is foul.
Good luck,
Donald
I attacked the aftermarket myself, tracked down every wire which did not come from the factory. That was fairly easy to figure out although it took time. Yards and yards of wiring came out, numerous LEDs, switches,and a brain or two (mine also had front/rear bumper mounted radar detector). I did take out one Bosch relay which had the right P look, but was in a suspicious association.
I also isolated wiring to the battery and removed at least two hot connections (that solved a serious amp leak). I had no problems from the removal, and YMMV, but I will not let an alarm shop, stereo shop, etc. do anything but look at my car in the grocery store parking lot. Until further notice, Bill Labarge and I have a duopoly on messing up or fixing things (you can safely bet on who messes & who fixes) on my car. If nothing else it narrows the field of possibilities and simplifies the action when something is foul.
Good luck,
Donald
07-09-2002, 08:55 PM
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Burning Brakes
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OK Rob,
The alarm has hot feeds from the ignition and alarm battery backup too. Mine has at least 3 fuses. Therefore, it has at least 3 power sources. The alarm manufacturer can tell you how to disable the alarm.
I would find all power sources. Pull all fuses. That should disable the alarm. Your car should start. I pulled all 3 fuses that the manufacturer told me about. I still had some alarm functionality from somewhere. Go figure. Find someone qualified on your product, and fix, disable, or eliminate. It may be adequate to just disable. Who knows?
Contact the manufacturer for a recommended shop.
<img src="graemlins/burnout.gif" border="0" alt="[burnout]" />
The alarm has hot feeds from the ignition and alarm battery backup too. Mine has at least 3 fuses. Therefore, it has at least 3 power sources. The alarm manufacturer can tell you how to disable the alarm.
I would find all power sources. Pull all fuses. That should disable the alarm. Your car should start. I pulled all 3 fuses that the manufacturer told me about. I still had some alarm functionality from somewhere. Go figure. Find someone qualified on your product, and fix, disable, or eliminate. It may be adequate to just disable. Who knows?
Contact the manufacturer for a recommended shop.
<img src="graemlins/burnout.gif" border="0" alt="[burnout]" />
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07-10-2002, 01:56 AM
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Racer
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Ok calming my self down here.. I have been a Installer for over 13 years now an I am biteing my tounge over that disdain comment.. I know alot of people have problems with my prof. but please to make such a comment, Ok now to your problem.
I would like to know what the make of your alarm is it would help in telling you whats up or how to remove it. There is rarley more then 2 switch used in a alarm so i am kinda thrown off by you ment. 3. Alarm by nature hate power surges and will lock up, not letting the car start. With are ground problem this happen way to often. I fixed the factory alarm in my 84 and did not put a after market in for this reason. As to pulling the power wire for alarm it depends on how it was installed N/O or N/C, If normaly closed them pulling the power will stop the car form starting all together. The best way would be to find where the severed the starter wire and reconect them. Sould be along the main Ign. harness. Sorry to rant.
Thurston. 84 euro AT.
I would like to know what the make of your alarm is it would help in telling you whats up or how to remove it. There is rarley more then 2 switch used in a alarm so i am kinda thrown off by you ment. 3. Alarm by nature hate power surges and will lock up, not letting the car start. With are ground problem this happen way to often. I fixed the factory alarm in my 84 and did not put a after market in for this reason. As to pulling the power wire for alarm it depends on how it was installed N/O or N/C, If normaly closed them pulling the power will stop the car form starting all together. The best way would be to find where the severed the starter wire and reconect them. Sould be along the main Ign. harness. Sorry to rant.
Thurston. 84 euro AT.
07-10-2002, 02:10 AM
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Racer
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Donald,
I think that's a good way to go about tracking these things down. To be honest, when I went to our local 928 get-together;
<a href="http://www.geocities.com/ipmsmtdiablo.geo/sitp/sitp2.html" target="_blank">Sharks in the Park II - May 4, 2002</a>
2 of the most interesting 928's that were there, were from Devek and they both had their interior's and engine compartment's gutted. No extra electrical items and you could see where almost every wire started and ended... heaven !
Thom,
In all honesty... I don't want it easy to disable, I want it completely taken out. I would be more than happy to have a really good unit correctly installed as long as this lousy one is out. The PO didn't even have the manual, so he was no help as far as the alarm goes. I wonder (maybe wishfull thinking) if I go to a reputable installer if I can get a deal with them taking the bad unit out and putting a good quality unit in ?
Rob <img src="graemlins/oops.gif" border="0" alt="[oops]" />
I think that's a good way to go about tracking these things down. To be honest, when I went to our local 928 get-together;
<a href="http://www.geocities.com/ipmsmtdiablo.geo/sitp/sitp2.html" target="_blank">Sharks in the Park II - May 4, 2002</a>
2 of the most interesting 928's that were there, were from Devek and they both had their interior's and engine compartment's gutted. No extra electrical items and you could see where almost every wire started and ended... heaven !
Thom,
In all honesty... I don't want it easy to disable, I want it completely taken out. I would be more than happy to have a really good unit correctly installed as long as this lousy one is out. The PO didn't even have the manual, so he was no help as far as the alarm goes. I wonder (maybe wishfull thinking) if I go to a reputable installer if I can get a deal with them taking the bad unit out and putting a good quality unit in ?
Rob <img src="graemlins/oops.gif" border="0" alt="[oops]" />
07-10-2002, 02:23 AM
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Racer
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We usually charge 25 to 50 dollars to pull out a old alarm and to install on runs any where from 60 to 300 dollars. If you look into a new system Please get a DEI. or Alpine system. These have the best track record of all the alarms I have delt with. The trick to getting a good deal as well as install is to go directly to the installers in your area, walk right past the salesmen. Show them your car talk with then about your concerns. Find one that really likes the car. Ask to see theres.. Is it clean and well maintained??? What system do they like and why? Make them into a friend and they will take care of you.
Thurston. 84 euro AT.
Thurston. 84 euro AT.
07-10-2002, 02:28 AM
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Donald,
I think that's a good way to go about tracking these things down. To be honest, when I went to our local 928 get-together;
<a href="http://www.geocities.com/ipmsmtdiablo.geo/sitp/sitp2.html" target="_blank">Sharks in the Park II - May 4, 2002</a>
2 of the most interesting 928's that were there, were from Devek and they both had their interior's and engine compartment's gutted. No extra electrical items and you could see where almost every wire started and ended... heaven !
Thom,
In all honesty... I don't want it easy to disable, I want it completely taken out. I would be more than happy to have a really good unit correctly installed as long as this lousy one is out. The PO didn't even have the manual, so he was no help as far as the alarm goes. I wonder (maybe wishfull thinking) if I go to a reputable installer if I can get a deal with them taking the bad unit out and putting a good quality unit in ?
Rob <img src="graemlins/oops.gif" border="0" alt="[oops]" />
I think that's a good way to go about tracking these things down. To be honest, when I went to our local 928 get-together;
<a href="http://www.geocities.com/ipmsmtdiablo.geo/sitp/sitp2.html" target="_blank">Sharks in the Park II - May 4, 2002</a>
2 of the most interesting 928's that were there, were from Devek and they both had their interior's and engine compartment's gutted. No extra electrical items and you could see where almost every wire started and ended... heaven !
Thom,
In all honesty... I don't want it easy to disable, I want it completely taken out. I would be more than happy to have a really good unit correctly installed as long as this lousy one is out. The PO didn't even have the manual, so he was no help as far as the alarm goes. I wonder (maybe wishfull thinking) if I go to a reputable installer if I can get a deal with them taking the bad unit out and putting a good quality unit in ?
Rob <img src="graemlins/oops.gif" border="0" alt="[oops]" />
07-10-2002, 02:36 AM
#13
Three Wheelin'
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Thurston-
Don't take offense; if you know you are a competent professional that's all you need. I am glad you defended yourself. My "profession" is spending it's time in front of Congressional hearings these days
.
As to my car, as stated in my post, no one works on it except the mechanic who has proven to me the skill and concern that I expect. That includes the Porsche dealership, (and I know for a fact there are good mechanics there).
Cheers,
Donald
Don't take offense; if you know you are a competent professional that's all you need. I am glad you defended yourself. My "profession" is spending it's time in front of Congressional hearings these days
. As to my car, as stated in my post, no one works on it except the mechanic who has proven to me the skill and concern that I expect. That includes the Porsche dealership, (and I know for a fact there are good mechanics there).
Cheers,
Donald
07-10-2002, 02:42 AM
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Racer
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Thurston,
You are right. I should not have lumped all of the professional alarm installers in one group. I apologize for that. I have had a bad experience some years ago and combining that with the electrical complexity of our cars... well, I mean no disrespect.
I have just checked the remote. The decal has long come off, but I think it is a DEI unit. I also just went to their website and it looks just like one of their Hornet models.
Now, 2 things have just changed. Before today, the only indication that there was anything in the car other than a stock alarm was the blinking LED in the center console, behind the switches and the disco LED in place of the clock. Both would come on when I locked the car using the door locks.
In my "seisure" yesterday, I finally got desperate and pushed the right button on the remote. Ever since I got back from my ride last night, the disco LED has stoped and the single red LED in the console has remained on. The stock LEDs in the door locks are working and get this... now I can lock and unlock my doors using the remote.
I think it's possesed... but I am willing to learn how to properly use it, so long as it allows me to start the car when I want to. I don't want it to strand me when the remote goes south.
Rob <img src="graemlins/oops.gif" border="0" alt="[oops]" />
You are right. I should not have lumped all of the professional alarm installers in one group. I apologize for that. I have had a bad experience some years ago and combining that with the electrical complexity of our cars... well, I mean no disrespect.
I have just checked the remote. The decal has long come off, but I think it is a DEI unit. I also just went to their website and it looks just like one of their Hornet models.
Now, 2 things have just changed. Before today, the only indication that there was anything in the car other than a stock alarm was the blinking LED in the center console, behind the switches and the disco LED in place of the clock. Both would come on when I locked the car using the door locks.
In my "seisure" yesterday, I finally got desperate and pushed the right button on the remote. Ever since I got back from my ride last night, the disco LED has stoped and the single red LED in the console has remained on. The stock LEDs in the door locks are working and get this... now I can lock and unlock my doors using the remote.
I think it's possesed... but I am willing to learn how to properly use it, so long as it allows me to start the car when I want to. I don't want it to strand me when the remote goes south.
Rob <img src="graemlins/oops.gif" border="0" alt="[oops]" />
07-10-2002, 05:04 AM
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Well thers good news. The alarm can be turned off without the remote.Turn the ikey to the on position and flip the valet switch (on of the toggles you mention earlier. This will shut down the alarm and let you start the car. If left in this mode it will also stop chirping when armed and disarmed but still lock your dorr if so equiped. to put it back to active mode repeat above. Hope that helps.
Thurston. 84 euro AT. <img src="graemlins/wave.gif" border="0" alt="[byebye]" />
Thurston. 84 euro AT. <img src="graemlins/wave.gif" border="0" alt="[byebye]" />