alarm?

[Nick Triesch]

I have the factory alarm in my 85 Carrera. I do not have the keys. Does the alarm in this vintage 911 work well? I don't see any kind of switch in the doors, must just go through the door locks. If I get the keys and try it could it fry my system? Most electrical things work well now. Nick

[Joe Bob]

I wouldn't trust it.....

[DRACO A5OG]

I rarely use mine. When I first got my car. I used it allot until my DME relay went out. I later discovered it was connected to the OEM alarm.

Replaced DME and use it from time to time but no troubles so far. Maybe my relay was too old

[intakexhaust]

Factory 1985 alarm had the switch in the door jamb and the module in the luggage compartment under the windshield cowl. Not much of an alarm. I removed mine but retained the harness. The key is unique to the switch. If your key is missing, it's easier to replace the entire switch assembly with another used one or other new type / aftermarket.

[Por_sha911]

The factory alarm requires the switch in the door jam to be connected or the car won't start. Your only other option is to fully remove the factory system.
I bought my car with no alarm keys as well. I went to several locksmiths and they all said they couldn't re-key it so I bought a new switch. It works fine. As far as technology goes, its old but still gives some peace of mind. I have read where people are concerned about it going bad on you and I guess that is a risk with anything that is 25 years old. I have also read a lot of posts of problems from aftermarket alarms with no documentation, shoddy workmanship, the company went under and there was no way to repair or diagnose the problem.

[jurhip]

I just successfully removed an aftermarket alarm. How do you know if you have a factory alarm? Just curious.

[dshepp806]

Check it against the wiring diagrams.....

BEST!

Doyle

[schoward]

I resurrected mine in my 81 with a new switch/keys. Works exactly as owners manual describes. Gives a little peace of mind parked with targa top off.

[jurhip]

Doyle,
I know. I am an ME and I still find these little diagrams insane to look at for more than 30 sec. I can stare at cross sections all day, but give me a wiring diagram and god only knows what happens to me.

I was wondering if there was an easy telltale sign - people speak of keys in the door jam?
BTW, I have an '87 Carrera. It came with one key.

[Porsche 911]

To test alarm, try opening trunk (pull release without unhooking the trunk latch) with doors locked. If honking horns wake up the neighbors, you know your system is at least alive and kicking.

[kanadary]

or just open the unlocked door till your interior light turns on. you will know if your alarm is working or not. i hardly use mine as the car is garaged and when i'm out its usually in a decent area of the city.