WARNING--WARNING--WARNING--DANGER WILL ROBINSON DANGER
----BE CAUTIOUS-----

This is to anyone that's thinking about installing a remote start in their pride and joy. You better think twice.

I purchased a Bulldog Remote start. I began wiring everything up, relays were clicking and everything was working good. I had 2 wires left to finish the job. The wires were to be connected to the starting system. I used a test light to find the correct wire. Went to test a wire on a connecter and BAM!!!!! It sent 12volts back through the entire computer system. Didn't know it untill i went to start it and all the dash lights were dim with no turn signal, headlights stayed on, stereo came on, etc...etc...etc...Had to replace multi-function switch in steering column, new gauge assembly and about 5 other computer components. $3000.00 or so, 852.00 my cost, truck is back to normal. The dealer picked up the remaining cost under warranty, THANK GOD!!

Lessons learned-take it to someone that knows what they are doing. I could have had keyless entry and remote start installed for what i paid for repairs. Too much computer controlled stuff in a vehicle makes it extemely hard to do simple stuff, no matter how much research you do or however many schematic diagrams you have. Use a MULTIMETER and not TEST LIGHTS when checking for voltage

 

sorry that happened to you. usually i try to send it to a professional when it involves electrical work like for my stereo and led underbody lights. i know i could do it myself but when i start spicing wires for them and hear warnings about how your airbags could go off if you dont do it right, i usually stop right there.
trying posting in the 3rd gen forum where you can get a better response

 

ouch. my condolences.

 

Thanks for the condolences. The dealership was really great to work with. I've limited myself to installing neon's and stereo's. Your right about the airbag deployment. I did see 2 sets of twisted pair wires in the wiring harness and pretty much figured those were part of the airbag system.

I did install a seperate ATO fuse box which is turned on/off by a simple relay. The relay is triggered by the cigg. lighter, which is controlled by the ignition switch. Its worked well so far and is completely indepenant from the trucks computers and signal wires. Its very easy to install and at least i know all my accessories will turn off when the ignition is off. Worse thing that could happen is blow a fuse. I gauged all the wires and determined the power requirements before i started the project.

I did find that their are quite a few empty wire plugs under the dash. Curious as to what they go to as far as future options go. Schematics are not really clear though. Any idea's how to find out, please let me know.

 

I never use a test light. I dont even know why they keep selling that ****e. That was good on pre 1980 cars.