Date:         Thu, 17 Dec 2009 10:41:12 +1300
Reply-To:     Andrew Grebneff <goose1047@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Andrew Grebneff <goose1047@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Remote locks (was: The List)
In-Reply-To:  <2D2986D1-75E9-4E7A-8551-96CB8AB1B246@helix.ucsd.edu>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1

> Has anybody installed an aftermarket remote lock system on their
> Vanagon? If so how difficult and was it worth it?

It'd  be worth it! No more massing with keys when your hands are
full... I bought an Electric-Life T3-specific (not "multifit") kit for
my 84, but never fitted it as the bus was off the road. My "new" 93
has factory central locking, so I'd probably only have to fit the
remote system and keep the solenoids etc for eventuality of Bosch part
failure. As well as connecting the windows to a permanently-live
terminal and setting both windows up for one-touch operation.

> And while we are on the subject, has anyone done this and disabled
> their keylocks?

Don't!! What happens when the battery or locking system fails? You've
GOT to have keyable locks for this eventuality.

To get one-key operation for a van, remove all lock cylinders (or take
the complete handles) to a locksmith and have him recombinate them to
match the ignition key. I've had a replacement slider lock done, and
it was cheap. Watch the reassembly... somehow that damn lock came
loose and fell out in storage (and was lost). Soft Loctite would be a
good idea.

--
Regards
Andrew Grebneff
Dunedin
New Zealand
Fossil preparator
Mollusc, Toyota & VW van fan