I just got a 2002 F150 regular cab, short bed, 6cyl, 5-speed, no power locks or windows.

I went to make a copy of the key at home depot but they said they could not copy it as the key had a Chip and if copy was made without the chip, the truck would recognize the missing chip and shutdown the vehicle if the someone tried to start it.

Reading online, someone said a way to get around the high cost of making spare keys with the "chips" is to permanently attach the key to somewhere like under the dash. That way the truck recognizes the chip and the spare keys without the chips will work just fine.

Will that work or my other question is, because the truck does not have power locks or windows, would it need the chip in the key to start?

 

The transponder in the key ("chip") is read by a sensor loop in the collar around the key slot in the column. The truck will only start and run if there is a key that the truck is programmed to read in the slot.

If you have 2 keys that are already programed you can program additional keys for the truck yourself.
See this article; PATS Key System Programming .: Articles

Trying to start your truck with an improper key, IE: one that is not programed for it, will not harm a thing. It simply will not start.
Key blanks can be purchased online for about $10.00 each.
Get your key cut and then program it yourself following the instruction in the article linked to.

Previous threads on this subject;
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/7...spare-key.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/874485-pats-key.html

Keys here; http://shop.ebay.com/?_from=R40&_trk...All-Categories
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1997-...Q5fAccessories

BTW; People that work at building supply stores are not the best source for automotive advice.

 

Good tip!.....but you know, He was a little off, but was correct about the chip and the key not working. A lesser grunt, would have just cut the key.