Ok so i'm slowly looking to start my baby thats been dormant way too long, but I cant find the key.

I've heard that this key chip security thing can be removed, but I need a list of the crap I have to take out, I assume someone has done this here. Any help would be great.

 

Am I in the wrong forum?

 

To do it properly you have to have it programmed out of the prom, then bypass the vats module. For a complete todo list on it goto this site..

http://thirdgen.org/

 

Hmmm, what if I dont know the value?

Cool site, bookmarked!

 

You need the key to check the ohms accross the resistor in the key...but you dont have the key so I guess the only thing left to do is crush the car...

 

I know that GM actually used a finite number of resistance chips. If I remember right its well under 20. But If you get it removed from the computer a simple bypass will take care of the module. If the computer isnt looking for the signal no vats signal is needed.

 

to be truthfull they only used like 9 different keys...It get expensive to stock 20 different keys that cost them $15 a peice....I used to work for a GM dealership in parts....especially when you need to stock 20 a peice just in case... Too bad the car is over 10 years old....GM stores VIN's for 10 years and you could have taken the VIN to them and had them cut you a new key. Your best bet is to get a new lock cylinder with a key and then you don't have to worry about it. Either your Local Chevy Dealer or auto store should supply wou with what you need.

Chris

 

or you could do what i did...lol my buddies 88 camaro key works in my 86...but mine doesnt work in his...good luck

 

Pricey or not too bad?

 

is it possible just to swap the ign switch/key or column to fix the problem? just wondering cause i have the column, keys and the little yellow box that i think is the module from my 89 formula that i scrapped.

 

I wonder how accurate the resistance has to be? In the right case I bet using a potentiometer and turning it slightly every time and cranking it to see what happens may be a slow yet easy process.

 

VATS key and Lock Cylinder from Claasic Industries is about $40.
To bypass VATS in the prom, all you do is turn it off in the prom, and that is it, but you will need an adaptor and blank prom if your ECM uses a memcal (you can cut off the stock prom from the memcal and unsolder all the leads and then put a socket in there also, I did that before the adaptors were available) , TBI cars don't need an adaptor since thier prom plugs right into the ECM.