Has anyone installed remote locks on an 80 or older C10?

[colton hicks]

I have a 1980 c10 silverado that i've been working on and i've ordered the door panels but since my locks have been sticking i've decided to install remote locks the same time i put the panels on. I was just wondering what kind of issues i would be running into.

[Captkaos]

your door locks have been sticking?  and you are putting electric ones in?  How were they sticking?  If there was something wrong with the latch, adding a remote isn't going to help, you need to solve that first.

[colton hicks]

no they had been sticking but with a little lubrication all is well. I was planning on installing remote locks eventually anyways I was just wondering if anyone had installed them before and if so had they run into any unforeseen problems.

[Jarrett1967]

I have installed a few, once on a 67 Camaro and on a Toyota but not on my truck just yet . . .

However, the concept is the same.  The remote lock motor pushes and pulls the rod that is on the other end of the door lock knob so it has to be freely moving.  Most kits attach to the rod with a clamp - make sure the clamp is aligned and tightly clamped down and that the lock motor is aligned with the rod that moves the lock. 

If your truck doesn't have an existing hole for wiring you'll need to take your time and think about the best placement for the wiring to pass from the kick panel area to the door.  You'll have to drill a few holes - take the time to smooth the holes out, paint them, grommet them, and use wireflex or loom to protect the wiring.  Other than that - most kits use Bosch relays and they are common parts to replace if anything does fail.

[colton hicks]

Thanks I appreciate it. Is there a good place to mount the sensor?

[bigblock73]

I am running a Spal remote entry system on my 73.  I am smply using the remote unit and transmittors, but using my factory 77-87 solenoids.  Easy install, mounted behind the dash.  My outside lock cylinders have been shaved, no switches on the inside door panels, just the manual lever.