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Old Oct 14, 2025 | 10:55 AM
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Default 1974 corvette alarm

Well guys I think I tried everything I’m trying to get my factory alarm system to work
had the car for 41 years
the problem is when you turn the key to the on position the alarm starts blaring
replaced all 3 switches
replaced the flasher in the car jack compartment the relay beside the flasher seems to be working if you turn the key to on position you can here the relay clicking so I’m thinking it’s ok
put a jumper on all 3 switches still the same
not sure if the problem maybe behind the actual key switch
kind of frustrating
any insight would be appreciated
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Old Oct 14, 2025 | 12:01 PM
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Without knowing too much about it, the key switch should simply be open when key off, closed when key on. If the key in off position turns off the alarm, it tells me the switch is doing what it's supposed to do. If the alarm sounds when the key is turned on, something down the line must be activating the alarm.
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Old Oct 14, 2025 | 12:03 PM
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Hello,

Are the hood and door switches properly adjusted so the system actually knows when the doors/hood are closed?

Regards....
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Old Oct 14, 2025 | 12:08 PM
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Originally Posted by Alan 71
Hello,

Are the hood and door switches properly adjusted so the system actually knows when the doors/hood are closed?

Regards....
This is a good point. Try taping down all the switches so you are sure they are off.
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Old Oct 14, 2025 | 12:14 PM
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What about the (4th switch) tamper proof sensor that makes sure the alarm lock was not punched out?
It looks just like the headlight position switches and is mounted below the lock on the fender
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Old Oct 20, 2025 | 09:10 AM
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Thank you for responding, but I even tried to jump each of the two wires coming off the switches so three jumpers and the horn goes off. I don’t understand
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Old Oct 20, 2025 | 09:25 AM
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Originally Posted by Sarsnick
Thank you for responding, but I even tried to jump each of the two wires coming off the switches so three jumpers and the horn goes off. I don’t understand
I'm not sure but I would think with door/hood open that would close the switch. So, if you jump the switch that would the same as opening a door and setting off the alarm. Try to disconnect one side of each switch one at a time. I mentioned before to tape down all the switches, did you try that? Be sure they are pushed down all the way.

I recently bought a '73 with alarm system but it's disabled. The key switch has been removed and wires just hanging there. I'll go out and try to get a handle on how the system works and try to give some better advice.
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Old Oct 20, 2025 | 09:29 AM
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From: colo
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The door and hood switches are in a normally open position , so when you open the door it closes the switch and sets off the alarm. Unplug the power wire to each switch ( you should use a multimeter to find them ) and tape them off - so they don't short out. If the alarm stays off, then plug one switch back together at a time and test the system to see if it is working correctly.

Let us know.
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Old Oct 20, 2025 | 09:51 AM
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Originally Posted by righthanddrive
The door and hood switches are in a normally open position , so when you open the door it closes the switch and sets off the alarm. Unplug the power wire to each switch ( you should use a multimeter to find them ) and tape them off - so they don't short out. If the alarm stays off, then plug one switch back together at a time and test the system to see if it is working correctly.

Let us know.
I was going to say something like that but thought it would be unclear. I think in an operational sense, the switches are normally closed. When not installed, the switch is closed. You have to push it to open it.

However, when installed and with door/hood closed then the switch is opened. So, as long as considering doors/hood normally shut, then the switch will be normally open.

Last edited by zxryder72; Oct 20, 2025 at 10:04 AM.
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