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No you can't just unplug it. The early module does 2 things it "enables" the starter and the fuel injectors. The ECM needs to see the frequency generated by the module to enable the fuel delivery.....injectors won't fire with out that signal. If your starter works then it is unlikely that your VATS module is a problem. Quickest thing to do is get a custom "Prom" with a VATS "delete".
Here's a company that lists Theft Deterrent Decoder Modules and the key resistance
value the module was programmed for.
Usually you can find the modules on E-bay. You need to search by the
part number since many of the sellers don't know what the Black Box is and
only list the part number printerd on the sticker on the module.
Note: This is the module behind the Bread Box.
The Theft Deterrent Alarm Module is under the passenger side foot well area near
the fuse box.
...Can I just unplug my module and use a VATS bypass? Will the car start without the module?
Recently had the same problem on my '89 auto. Turns out that the problem was not with the VATS module, but rather the pellet sensor in the ignition lock. (It couldn't read the resistance in the pellet even after cleaning the contacts as per the FSM. Of course the lock was original, and the Vette had 235K+ miles on it!)
Anyway, I purchased a VATs by-pass module from Eckler's, dropped the carpeted panel under the driver's side dash, disconnected the VATS lead from the ignition to the VATS module, plugged in the by-pass module, and the Vette started right up!
This might work for you and is certainly less expensive than replacing either the VATS module or the ignition lock if the pellet sensor is FUBAR.