Thinking about security

Arctic Travelller

Adventurer
Did you contact Ramos?

Hi, no I have not. At this time, I'm pretty much looking for do it yourself ideas as my budget is limited until I sell my prior van. I'm working on a hidden fuel pump cutout switch this weekend, and then will design some sort of interior door locks for the side and rear doors. I've also got some window tint film, so I though I'd see what I can get away with. If I get pulled over, I'll live with the consequences, but since it's not too dark perhaps I'll be ok. Prior to heading to Baja, I'll probably install some type of removable window screens, a lock box and an alarm system. Ultimately, I'd like to install a couple "Autobolts" on the two front doors, and security film on the windows, but I'd love to hear any other ideas anyone has. Thanks for the help...................Arctic Traveller
 

Arctic Travelller

Adventurer
Fix the known issues, such as the stupidly easy to break into rear door (mounting a lock in a plastic insert, really???) and weak side lock retainer clips.

I was not aware of these issues, can you be a little more specific about them? Other than an interior slide bar type lock, how can this be addressed? Thanks in advance
 
I just got back from Ensenada for the 500. I left my van unattended many times. Drove it home without any issues.

Keep us posted on what you come up with.
 

Arctic Travelller

Adventurer
Making some progress

So, today I installed a small safe in an interior cupboard, but it's just bolted through some of the woodwork. It will take some effort to remove though, and hopefully the alarm will run them off before they find it or can get it removed. I also bought a couple gate type latches (a bar that slides back and forth into a slotted receiver) that I intend to attach to the interior of the side and back doors. To prevent entry by breaking the windows, I looked at the selection of expanded metal at Home Depo, but it's crazy expensive and it's just thin aluminum. I'm also considering some welded wire shelving units that I can trim to fit the windows. Since I'll use the existing bolts they will be easy to remove. This leaves the front two windows, where I'm still thinking of using security film. The next little project will be a fuel pump and perhaps an ignition cutoff. Any reason I can't just put a hidden switch in the power wire to the pump? ........................Arctic Traveller
 

r_w

Adventurer
Fix the known issues, such as the stupidly easy to break into rear door (mounting a lock in a plastic insert, really???) and weak side lock retainer clips.

I was not aware of these issues, can you be a little more specific about them? Other than an interior slide bar type lock, how can this be addressed? Thanks in advance

The rear door handle/lock/license plate mount is plastic and usually fails under normal use. It is only held to the door by a couple small screws.

Here is what the contractors use when they have to be in and out a lot http://www.inlad.com/CargoLockElectronicDeadBoltLock.aspx

A lot slicker than the slick locks. My big gripe with the external padlocks is they are external only so you have locked your emergency exits--OK for a cargo box but not good with people riding or sleeping there.
 

derjack

Adventurer
Hi,

All nice ideas.
But finally the weakest point is the body material itself, it's just about 0,8mm steal and in some areas it's folded double. With a hard screw driver I can go through the wall of a new car.

I know and have spoken to a lot of people who thought twice before they prepared their rig for Africa and East Europe to Asia (via land route). depending on where you are going there is NO solution.
In parts of Russia your Mercedes Unimog big toy (like u 5000 or a 6 Wheeler) will just be rubbed, with you inside our not! Hopefully you are not in there.

In Africa it's partly different. The big trucks are not so often stolen, but Mercedes G, Toyota landcruiser are. The newer the worse.

So some people use even older cars without glossy look, to be "save", that look like mine.

Btw mine has a mechanically switch inside the gasoline line. So the new drive will stop after half a litter gasole.

My guess it's America and also south America is different.... My upcoming E350 is probably sooo rare that nobody know a how to deal with it ;-)


Just my thoughts.
 

Forum statistics

Threads
187,885
Messages
2,899,585
Members
229,073
Latest member
fireofficer001
Top