+1 I think celltech and I did ours about the same time

 

I didn't realize Ford had 2-way systems these days. I've had good luck in the past with Compustar branded 2-way starters on my wife's vehicles. Have never paid the money for that feature on any of my trucks. Not sure why, but I get a real kick out of the "query" feature on the computstars, which can tell me the interior temperature of the car. I probably use that more than the actual start feature.

Anyone know what the range is on the Ford Factory units? I don't need a one mile range, but I'd like it to start from more than a couple hundred feet.

 

It's way more than 200 feet.

 

I thought so. All the aftermarket folks publish range figures, so I was wondering if Ford did the same.

 

Ford says the 2way has 1000 ft range. (Remote Start System - Bi-Directional, Without Push Button Start | The Official Site for Ford Custom Accessories)

 

For those that have an aftermarket remote start, you do know that under the dash is a key for the truck?
I used to install aftermarket remote starters. Will never get one.

 

Key under the dash? You mean like a "keyless go" setup? Our 150's don't have that..

 

Take your key. go and get it cut. make sure it is only a metal key, no plastic parts.
Try starting your truck. If I do that, my alarm will go off.

So, to avoid this problem, aftermarket remote starters take a key with the programed chip and hid it in the dash of the truck. When the signal to start is sent, the alarm is not triggered as it reads the chip from the hidden key.

 

Swimmer, not all alarms require you to put a key under the dash. Many of them have electronic modules that accomplish the same function. I'd say very few of the newer ones use a physical key. My last two have not.

I'm not an expert on what that does to your overall security situation, but it doesn't bother me.

 

Both my Vipers do have cutoff keys (just the head) under the dash. I wanted to bypass the PATS system so if i needed a new key it was a simple thing to do. I was offered to use the security module and declined. So yes i'm aware

 

That's actually a good tip, means making spare keys will be a lot easier, as you can use an unprogrammed key from ebay or wherever. I never thought of that benefit.

 

My 2cents, I went with the compustar pro series on my new 14. I think I got a fair deal at about $400 installed and no key under the dash.They just needed both my keys to program. I work inside a cement vault and park probably a little more than about 100 yards away from my desk and the two way is flawless as I cant see if it started or not. Ive never had good luck with the factory autos, but it would make sense they were getting better as its becoming a more expected accessory.

 

I am a big fan of the Compustar units.