Miata Mailing List: December 1994, Message #11
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   From: erict@cta.com (Eric Thorstenson)
Subject: Kill switches, etc.
   Date: Thu, 1 Dec 1994 10:11:45 -0500


Hi all. I like the idea proposed by Mike about interrupting
the spark signal, except that I'd be a little concerned about
sending the CPU mixed messages - i.e., it knows the engine is
cranking because it told it to, but it also knows the engine
isn't cranking because there is no spark signal. Evidently it
works, but I wonder what is really going on inside its head.

How about simply wiring a hidden switch to bypass the clutch
switch? Stuff on the fuse box seems to obvious (that's the 
first thing I'd check!) but a bypass on the clutch switch
would be damn hard to detect, and doesn't send any mixed
messages to the CPU. The engine simply won't crank unless
the CPU thinks the clutch pedal is depressed. Of course, I
guess if the thief is on a hill or has a partner, he could
still bump start the car.

When I had my MBG, I wired the ignition and starter controls
into some little-known spare switches on the windshield wiper
stalk. No ignition key at all!! Don't know if anyone ever 
tried to steal it (though I did lose two radios out of it),
but I love the image of the thief trying to figure that one
out.

Eric T      Blue 90