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Push Button Start

X~FACTOR

Name is Ray
Joined
January 4, 2003
Messages
6,568
Reaction score
4
City, State
Valley Stream, Long Island
Year, Model & Trim Level
'97 XLT 4-dr SOHC
Does anyone know or have done to convert to a push button start and a flip up ignition switch?

Also, how to remove the steering wheel lock.

Thanks.
 



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Yes I have done it. Removing the column lock requires dis-assembling the column to get to it. There are a couple of ways to address the PATS system. The easiest way is to incorporate a remote start by pass unit. The other, less secure way, is to remove a transponder chip from one of your keys and attach it to the reader ring on the ignition cylinder. Here is my wiring diagram , maybe it will help you in your project.

pushbuttonign.jpg
 






Lucky me, my keys do not have a chip.
 






Then you can dump the relay and switch for the bypass to the far right and you're golden.
 






The relays in your pictures, do they already exist? If so, where would they be located?

Where would be the easiest to find these wires (Starter, Ignition 1, & 2), in steering column or in the engine bay?

Thanks for the help man. BTW, where in South Jersey are you? I'm in NJ 07747.
 






They are relays that you will need to add. Since you don't have to deal with the PATS keys you only need the 2 relays to the left. The easiest place to access the wires you'll need is under the steering column. Everything you need is right there. As for the switches you'll need 2. 1 toggle for the main power and 1 push button for the starter. I used a toggle with a flip up cover for the main power, and a rubber covered push button for the starter. I also installed 12v red indicator light in line with the main power switch so any time the main was on the light would be on. I'm outside of Hammonton(08215). And no problem, I hope my info can help you with your project.
 






Is it possible to run them without the relays since they are technically already there from the factory?

Basically find the ignition wire and accessory wire, connect those up to a flip up switch connected to the power.
Same with the starter wire?
 






Well, they're not really there from the factory. You're using them to simulate the operation of the ignition switch. Particularly the one to the far left. When you turn on the main power switch the first relay mimics the ignition switch being turned to the on position. When you push the start button that same relay mimics the ignition switch being turned to start, just like the ignition switch it releases the accessory feed while starting and then re-establishes it when the start button is released again just like the ignition switch. The second relay energizes the ignition 1 and 2 circuits while keeping them both energized and isolated while starting the car. Now that I got all long winded on you(sorry) you need the relays to keep the different circuits energized and isolated when they need to be, like the ignition switch does.
 






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