Quote:
Originally Posted by IanF
Electronic dead bolts is an idea I've thought of, since my plan is to cary fairly high-end mtn bikes in the garage area of my van. I've been wondering if such things were already in use. Are there commercially available examples?
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There are a few variations, I've used two different brands and found these to be the better choice:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Electronic-...53.m1438.l2649 Yes these are sold by a seller in the UK and a version of the same thing available here in the USA however I had a bad experience with them being deceitful and refusing to make things right. IIRC correctly they go by "A1 Auto Electric" or something to that effect. A Google search for electronic vehicle dead bolts" should yield a few good choices.
(Here's one of the USA sellers--I'd avoid them but YMMV:
https://www.a1electric.com/Merchant2...ct_Code=WDB-10 )
I incorporated mine into the aftermarket alarm system so they cannot be engaged without arming that system. That was easy enough for me---its not that tough really.
I installed and used a brand called The Auto Bolt and they're great---until they fail. The problem becomes if they fail in the locked position how do you disengage them to open the door? Short answer is I don't know. I had one or two fail but fortunately in the unlocked position so a simple replacement cured that issue.
The second type I installed and slightly modified with somewhat hidden vinyl wrapped cable pulls to release them in event of a device failure. I've carefully concealed them and might be foolishly thinking anyone who gains access to the interior wouldn't know what or where to look for, perhaps them thinking they could only be disabled with the alarm fob.
Once in place and engaged I've tested the cable pull release, a few times finding it a bit difficult to find it my own self.
Once found it works just as designed so I no longer fear being locked out of my own van with or without the alarm fob.
The initial surprise even after the typical key lock is breached and the door still not able to be opened might be enough to dissuade most common thieves from pursuing entry.
I like what I've installed---they might work for others too. Let me know if you have any questions.