this is my first post on this forum. just got the jeep today. and before you say anything YES I HAVE USED THE SEARCH BUTTON and have found next to nothing on this. i was wondering if anyone has a full write up with pictures for an XJ. i want to install one of these aftermarket kits with somewhat of an idea of how to do it.


thanks,
joma

 

Really, the best thing to do is to get the factory parts at a wrecking yard. They will bolt right in and be a minimum of fuss. The installation will be much easier than some universal kit.

 

Actually, an aftermarket kit will have actuators that have metal rods that can be connected to your existing lock rods that install easily with two drilled holes in your door panel.
You just run the wiring and plug everything into the control unit and you're done in a couple hours and have new lock actuators that will last alot longer than junk yard parts.

I get my actuators from Vickers Audio in Marietta, Ga.

I used a Viper keyless entry kit with their popular door lock actuators.

Seriously, this is a pretty easy job.

There is good pic thread if you do a search on door locks with how to install the actuators.

The hardest part of the whole job if you have no power locks to begin with is running the wiring though the vehicle which is not very hard at all as you run 2 wire decent gauge speaker wire to each door and make the connections to the control unit per instructions.

It is a very, very easy install.

 

so do you think me and my dad could do it one saturday? hes always done his own mechanical work so i feel like we could figure it out. toughest part seems to be running all the wires everywhere

 

Yes, should be no problem so check with your supplier and call a install shop for their best recommendation on easy/ basic install kits.

Here is the link on how to install the actuators to the lock rods in the doors.

https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f51/do...verhaul-59201/

Keep in mind that most keyless entry kits have wiring for multiple options such as starter lock out, door light recognition etc, but if you want to just do basic lock/unlock you will only need to make those connections while disregarding a crap load of other wires.
I usually just pull the unused wires right out of the connector to cut down on the amount of wiring I need to tuck under panels. Or you can simply cut the unused wires off at the base of the connector, but I like them totally removed.

Like I said it is a good idea to talk to an install shop tech to select a basic kit and ask them which wires do what and which ones you can eliminate as these guy do this all day long and can tell you which kits they like and they should know off the top of their head what wires do what you need for your application.

You can also spend some time on techie forums and find out online all that I mentioned above such as this link of a basic install on a chevy silverado.
http://www.a1electric.com/silverado3.htm

You can zip tie the control module under the dash but I like to use 3-M dual locking tape.

 

okay cool. i probably wont be installing them for a few weeks but when i do i will make a thread for future use. thanks for the info!