Tracking Device

RBBailey

RBBailey

NAS-ROW Addict
Callsign: KF7KFZ
I'm thinking of getting some kind of tracking device that I could leave in the Defender or Series truck to give me a chance at recovery in case of being stolen.

I've only just barely looked into options, and I'm wondering if anyone has any ideas or experience.
 
PJambo

PJambo

Well-known member
I've had a great experience with TrackmateGPS. The unit is $70 and plans start at $9/mo.

It pings off both GPS and GSM signals. Geofences can be set up for any location, distance, or time. For example, I have a 1 mile circle around my house that the truck doesn't leave between 11pm and 5am or else I get a text and an email. Speed notifications can be set up, but that would really only apply if you have an engine that can scoot.

It's powered by the truck's battery, and also has an internal backup battery that will power the unit in case the main battery is disconnected. It also has a remote fuel shutoff capability.

Doesn't replace common sense security, but it can stack the cards in your favor in case someone decides to have a go at your truck.
 
RBBailey

RBBailey

NAS-ROW Addict
Callsign: KF7KFZ
One of the problems I do worry about is the idea that with a soft top Series and the way the doors and windows seal so well on the Defender.... is there really such a thing as common sense security? LOL!

Thanks, I'll look into it.
 
Howski

Howski

Member
Could rig up a manual cutoff for the fuel pump or ignition pretty easily and tuck away the switch somewhere. Wouldn't stop someone from getting in but will stop them from taking off, which it sounds like is your concern
 
rovercolorado

rovercolorado

Well-known member
Daddymow said:
Yes, it's called a manual transmission.
Click to expand...

My neighbor is a cop that works in the auto theft department and he says almost all vehicles stolen are automatics. Even more are stolen with the keys in the car and in the garage. Hence cold weather warmup rules are in place in many states and police are always telling everyone to close garage doors in summer. He did say that loose stuff (iPhones, glasses, etc) and radios are still popular no matter what transmission you have.
I keep nothing in the truck I can't live without and place the good stuff the seat boxes. I don't expect a non Rover owner to know they are even there.
 
WoldD90

WoldD90

Super Moderator
Staff member
A cut off switch and a removable steering wheel would be enough to thwart a would be thief.
 
RBBailey

RBBailey

NAS-ROW Addict
Callsign: KF7KFZ
Daddymow said:
Yes, it's called a manual transmission.
Click to expand...

That, and with the Series, even if they figure out the push button start, the choke, and manage to get driving, will they be able to get into second gear? And the police chase...
 
BengelRover

BengelRover

Member
Daddymow said:
Yes, it's called a manual transmission.
Click to expand...
Why is it assumed that a manual transmission is a good anti theft device? The personal vehicles of most car thieves here are manual.
The only reason I can think of as to why automatics are the most stolen is because their numbers are greater percentage wise versus number of vehicles with manual.
 
BengelRover

BengelRover

Member
RBBailey said:
http://jalopnik.com/5940410/once-again-car-thieves-thwarted-by-manual-transmission
Click to expand...
I can see where that is the case in the rest of the country. Here in Texas, and the closer you get to the border, you increase the likelihood of the thief knowing how to drive a stick. Too many people here driving full size Chevy Silverados with the basic V6 and manual transmission along with load exhaust because "it sounds cool". Manual is alive and well in Texas. The only people who don't know how to drive sticks are the tree hugging millennials.
http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/archive/index.php/t-519866.html
 
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