Is there any way to switch out the locks to be compatible with newer style keys, more modern compared to the old simple keys? I know on these trucks the keys don’t have very many variations and from what I’ve heard they’re pretty simple. Easier to break into? I was just thinking if a locksmith or some aftermarket lock could do that it would be nice for some added security.
Thanks

 

Way too much work for no gain. An accomplished s***bag will still be easily able to slim-jim the lock rod or just save themselves time and bust the window. At that point, if you have the stock power distribution system it’s just a matter of seconds until the truck is sailing off into the sunset.

Plenty of threads on the security topic. Simplest bet is to install a kill switch with some sort of backup that involves removing a piece of hardware like the distributor rotor. That will slow down enough thieves to the point that they get scared and bug out.

 

I’ve already got the truck apart, doors apart too so I figure it’s not much more work. EFI and a painless wiring harness. I’ll probably install at least one kill switch, but I figure it starts at the door lock and I’ll have the locking tabs on the vent windows. Not top notch security but minor upgrades

 

Also worth clarifying, I don’t mean necessarily with a key fob, but more complex keys. Keys that aren’t as simple

 

It isn't the key that is the weak point of security. If someone wants it bad enough, there's a glass window, there's vent glasses too. A pointy glass breaker will shatter either, like a rock thrown from a lawn mower.

I liked the idea I saw posted where flipping a switch causes the horn to blow when the brake pedal is stepped on.

 

Yeah, I guess that’s true. I’ll look into using a variety of switches and some relays so you have to know exactly how to start it, along with some other things. I’ve seen the brake/horn trick, I’ll test that out

 

Hide an AirTag in the truck somewhere. If it’s stolen you can track and advise law enforcement in realtime its location. I know it doesn’t add prevention or update it like a key fob but just a thought.
E

 

AirTags have a lot of limitations. It’s nice to have, but I wouldn’t count on it as a cure all for theft.

https://www.autoevolution.com/news/5...ar-223504.html

A cheap GPS tracker might be a better idea if it’s well hidden. There are a lot of them on the market although I’m sure thieves have figured out how to block those signals too.

 

I could pop open the door in 20 minutes with no special tools regardless of lock. Then pop hood and with $0-5 worth of wire I can have it running. If it's a pre 78, no steering wheel lock, just drive way.

A alarm is the best deterrent IMO. I've hot wired enough old cars that a fancy key isn't going to stop most anyone. Loud alarms will scare off punk kids/joyriders and 'professional' chop shop thieves.

if you want to make it more theft proof, locking hood latch, hidden kill switch, 78-79 locking steering wheel and alarm should make it not an easy target. Throw a Club on the wheel for good measure.

I think nice old vehicles are most likely to be stolen from your driveway --real thieves drive around looking for prime targets to chop or whatever it is they do with classic vehicles and come back later prepared. Parking in a garage, behind other cars, or in a well lit area that makes it harder to approach undected is way to go.

Most parking lot thieves are joyriders or kids/morons, locked doors and an alarm should keep them from succeeding really. Stick shifts work well too.

All in all, a modern key is not going to do much.

 

All good advice. I have a Holley terminator x EFI system so I’m hoping the added complexity vs a carb may help, along with some switches and relays to prevent starting without using them in a certain order. It’s a six speed so that’s an additional deterrent. I’ve seen locking vent window latches, and I’ll figure out how to rig the clutch or brake up to the horn (or just set up an alarm)

 

Get a manual transmission. Modern theft deterrent.

 

Yes i have a six speed manual. Doesn’t keep anyone from getting in and starting it, though. I’ve found some tricks I can use for the Holley ECU

 

Three on the tree, even better. F’ers will be so confused trying to find drive and the thing keeps grinding away making a helluva racket to the point where they’ll just give up. Won’t even notice the third pedal on the floor.