Installing Magnetic Reed Switch

First off, where can i buy the heavy duty ones (that arent prone to failure) other than from radioshack? I wanna carry a magnet on my keychain, hold it or swipe it against a panel with the switch behind it and allow for the car to then be started.. Used as a kill switch of course. Anyone done this? If so, how practical is it and would it be a wise investment? Point me to some links or diagrams, or products Thanks!!

back in the early-mid 80's we sold an alarm called Vandal Alert that operated this way.... you got a key fob with a magnet in it and hid the override switch behind a parking lamp lens.... the drag was ANYONE with a magnet could activate or deactivate your system... i would see the same problem with what you are trying to do..... Kevin Gerry

Certified Electronics Technician

MECP First Class Installer

Owner/Installer

Classic Car Audio

since 1979

it is possiable....if the remote start u own had a negitive act. input wire...then u could put a mag. switch on the wndow or something and boom....Where theres is a wire there's a way.

I don't think any magnetic switch would be a good idea on any car because the car is made up of metal, which attracts magnets. It could have a lot of negative effects on the sensor or switch.

diggerdoo wrote: I don't think any magnetic switch would be a good idea on any car because the car is made up of metal, which attracts magnets. It could have a lot of negative effects on the sensor or switch.

oohhh kkkkk.... Since your just driving a relay any should do, as long as their inside. I bought some cheapies once and installed them in my tool box in the back of my truck. First I sealed the holes (wire input) with silcone and they worked great. Stopped a turd from getting into it one time at a gas station too. I imagine if a theif tried to start your car and it failed he'd think it was an alarm and start looking for other things (jumping at starter) then moving a magnet around the inside of the car. You'd just have to worry about passangers and mechanics, if they wanted the car that is.