87 Corvette VATS question/problem
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 49
Likes: 0
From: Hilton Head sc
87 Corvette VATS question/problem
I installed the Mid-America Vats bypass system (the one with 3 settings).
It seemed to work well for a while.
I set it on the middle setting all of the time which is supposed to keep the car in bypass.
However, on a few occasions, I get the no-crank situation..
Since I have a battery cutoff switch, I just use the cutoff and turn the
car on again, and it starts fine.
I was told that even though the VATS Bypass is installed, it works in conjunction with the VATS system and that I should replace the theft deterrent relay.
Does this sound correct?
Your help/comments always appreciated.
Bob T
It seemed to work well for a while.
I set it on the middle setting all of the time which is supposed to keep the car in bypass.
However, on a few occasions, I get the no-crank situation..
Since I have a battery cutoff switch, I just use the cutoff and turn the
car on again, and it starts fine.
I was told that even though the VATS Bypass is installed, it works in conjunction with the VATS system and that I should replace the theft deterrent relay.
Does this sound correct?
Your help/comments always appreciated.
Bob T
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 2,753
Likes: 14
From: backwoods upstate ny
that relay is the most common varts (rhymes with ____) fail component...good to replace it, best IMHO to bypass it...ez bypass at the relay is to use a snap-lock 'trailer lighting' wire connector (cut connector internal stop so both wires run thru)....IIRC the two wires on 87 are yellow and green/white wire, but you must verify before modding.
Safety Car
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 3,556
Likes: 12
The bypass only takes out the requirement for the correct key to be seen.VATS module and its components are still in place and working ( or not as the case may be)
Taking out the starter relay as suggested by Redrose removes one more fail item.You still have the VATS injector cutoff as theft protection
Team Owner
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 54,124
Likes: 30
From: Cincinnati, Oh USA
Not only the starter enable relay is in the crank circuit, a more common failure is the clutch safety switch (gear selector switch at the base of the gear shift if automatic). Next time it won't crank, unplug the clutch safety switch and jump the wiring harness socket and try a crank. You must have 12 v on the jumper in crank position. You can test your starter by jumping 12v to the jumper, the starter should crank.
Drifting
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 1,736
Likes: 31
From: Reno Nevada
You can reprogram your memcal and have it removed in the programming. You can take a chance that your GM parts counter man knows what he's doing, and give him you VIN, and he can order a new key switch that you install and wire up.
You may learn more here:
www.vatssucks.com
You may learn more here:
www.vatssucks.com
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Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 25,349
Likes: 2,728
First I believe you would/should maybe confirm that it isn't already defeated. I would first confirm that the wire from the ignition switch at the base of the column is actually connected. If it's NOT then certainly VATS has been already defeated.
That doesn't answer all questions but when you buy the new cylinder and install it the cylinder will have only a "work key" in it. Install the cylinder, connect the wire and it will either crank or NOT. If it cranks, VATS is already defeated, if it does NOT then you need to decide what to do.
Find your keys and there won't be any issues!
That doesn't answer all questions but when you buy the new cylinder and install it the cylinder will have only a "work key" in it. Install the cylinder, connect the wire and it will either crank or NOT. If it cranks, VATS is already defeated, if it does NOT then you need to decide what to do.
Find your keys and there won't be any issues!
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 25,349
Likes: 2,728
You can reprogram your memcal and have it removed in the programming. You can take a chance that your GM parts counter man knows what he's doing, and give him you VIN, and he can order a new key switch that you install and wire up.
You may learn more here:
www.vatssucks.com
You may learn more here:
www.vatssucks.com
