Added a Sentry Key to the MJ.

[Sir Sam]

Not sure where this belongs, not really MJ tech, but more XJ.

 

On my 00MJ I added the factory Sentry Key Setup for theft protection. Its a pretty good setup in that it cannot be easily bypassed.  

I bought a new uncoded SKIM module off of eBay, two keys and got to work. Since my MJ is an 88 I had a used ECU from a 2000 that I had flashed to have my MJ vin put in. If you have the original ECU with your correct vehicle VIN then you could skip this step.

As soon as you connect the SKIM module it activates the SKIM setting in the ECU.

Then plug into it with a DRBIII or other tool, load up the SKIM module, and do “SKIM Replaced”. It will prompt you to enter the vehicle PIN, this is where you make one up you will never forget. It will then tell you the pin is correct and it is programmed. It will then read the country code and VIN from the ECU and set those in the SKIM.

Next program the new transponder keys to the SKIM like you would normally do.

So I now have two transponder keys, which are set to my Jeep. I’ve tested and without the key installed in the halo ring it starts and then shuts off after 3 seconds.

So I’ve anyone ever does try to steal it, they will mess up my steering column, but not get my vehicle to drive off.

For as cheap as this was, less than $100, I think it’s a great thing to add to your Jeep if you worry it might get stolen, especially if you have lots of mods that attract attention.

[eaglescout526]

This sounds applicable to 97-01 converted MJs. Is this true?

[Sir Sam]

1 hour ago, eaglescout526 said:

This sounds applicable to 97-01 converted MJs. Is this true?

 

Yes, though the implementation on the 97s is a little different if I remember right. I believe on those the security feature was built into the RKE board, which was export only. So I'm not sure if the 98+ module would work on a 97. Some unknowns there for me.

 

Running a 98 ECU in a 97 setup would likely work just fine though.