Howdy,
 
Had a thought the other day that the car could be nicked pretty easily, and figured I should ask you what ideas you have for anti theft on the escort. I want to avoid putting an alarm in due to running of cables and what not. Any ideas?
 
Cheers,
 
Rob

Just take out the rotor button when you leave it somewhere.
 
Matt

Yep rotor button is good. With out the want for running wires it limits you. Kill switch, alarms and immobilizers are all good. Problem with many of these is they are not 'visible'. The scum will get in and cause even more damage trying to start it. Visible options from the outside will hopefully mean the lazy thief will think too hard and try else where. Steering wheel locks, immobilizer flashing lights etc.

All that said, if someone really wants your pride and joy, they'll tow it or flat bed it.

Shaun

I used to have a club lock that worked well till I lost the key!
 
Maybe get a Doberman and have him sit in the car.
 
Matt

Maybe something like this would work
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqB6uM2hRpo&feature=related
Best easy thing is to fit a switch into the power wire to the coil.
when the car is started it will fire while the ignition is in the start position but as soon as the key is released it will stop. Just seems like the car has a fuel issue or something and wont run.

in my old mk1 van (pre immoboliser requirement) i ran a kill switch under my seat for the power to the electric fuel pump...
used to be able to start and run for about 15 seconds before conking out...
 
i reckon it caught me more times than a burglar tho

+1 for the visual deterant!
 
The last car of mine the scumbags attacked resulted in:

1. Bent door skin where they screwdirvered the lock out
2. smashed steering cowling
3. screwdrivered ignition barrel
4. torn wiring harness looking for a kill switch.

They didn't actually steal the car but cost me my insurance excess to get fixed, the door paint never quite matched ther rest of the car, I had to find another car to drive around for a few weeks.
 
 
 

Sounds good, think ill go with the flashing light and a kill switch to the coil 12v, might see if theres a steering lock somewhere around too. cheers for the ideas guys....
 
Rob

Mr Bean style quick release steering wheel is an option.

This is a good question. I feel very nervous when I leave the RS in the city etc.
I've always used a club lock simply for it's visual deterrence, and have taken out the rotor button for extra insurance at times.
I know locking the doors in an old Escort is about as effective as leaving the windows down, just about any key will turn the sloppy worn lock.
I would recommend a flashing light for sure and some kind of immobiliser.
If you fit an alarm put a different alarm brands sticker on the window.
Remember the ****s will still do damage even if they can't steal the car.