Bulldog remote start question..

[gtrz]

I purchased a Bulldog remote start and was wondering if it does
indeed make it easier to install with the optional bypass harness that you can buy. If it is a little easier and less invasive then I wouldn't mind spending a few more dollars. I have a '97 that doesn't have a key with a chip. Apparently on the Bulldog site they only list '98 and above for the harness but the '98 harness will work for the '97, yes? This is ONLY a start not keyless entry.
Thanks for any advice. btw I did search a little while for similar topics but if there is already a how to or similar thread I appologize.

 

[4.0L_4X4_Rob]

On their site the wiring diagram is the same from 95 to 00, the only thing that I can think that might be different is the plugs. I installed my remote starter on my 2000 by soldering the wires into the harness.

 

[gtrz]

Are you saying you soldered onto the add on harness or directly to the harness
on the X?

 

[Kawazar]

I installed a Bulldog a couple of weeks ago on my 97 Mountaineer. I know for my Mountaineer I needed the FD2 harness I believe. There was one harness for up to 97 and one for 98 and above. I think the harness fit both Mountaineer and Explorer. I pluged in the harness and only made 3 connections. One for the brake pedal and 2 others for the power locks because I don't have keyless entry. I had it installed and working in less than a half hour. That is from removing panels to putting everything back. I would purchase the harness if at all possible.

 

[tbirdman]

Harness or hardwire

GTRZ- I also purchased a Bulldog harness to try and "simplify" my remote start with keyless entry. However- after inspection I decided to install it "right" by soldering wires from remote start harness to X harness . If you take apart the ignition plug harness- you can actually remove wires from the ignition block and solder on starter harness and then re-insert into the ignition block, It's not for the timid though-if you think this might be beyond your ability- DO NOT try this at home !! I have done my share of starter & stereo installs and am also an electronic service tech ( 20 + years) so this wasn't to bad for me. Still- you have to take your time ( 1 wire at a time man !! ) So- recommend soldering and doing a thorough job- alotting more time for install. It will be worth it- trouble free and peace of mind. Incidentally- I did remove some of the bulldog harness to wire up auxillary feed for accessories so when I start the truck - all accessories can be turned on with no worry about overloads ( heater, radio, lights etc as required).
Think of it this way- you don't want your starter to fail or worse ... take your time and do it right, man .
Regards.