CAN Splicing - Ampire Immobiliser Installation

[EViS]

I would like to install an Ampire WFS400 CAN immobiliser. This is the equivalent immobiliser by IGLA, Ghost and SEO Electronics but are available to end-users for self installation. I am aware of the two can bus star connectors, however I'm hesitant to use these as they probably are not the most secure (hidden) area of connecting a security immobiliser.

What is the best method to splice into CAN H and L, ideally without splicing into an existing wire between modules? Are there any male > female plugs that could easily be made up and inserted into an existing loom which would then allow for the immobiliser to be removed without any modification to the CAN lines? Or, should I not overthink this and go ahead with cutting a can line and splicing in the new wires?

 

[Lashlee]

Though I'm not overly familiar with the exact unit that you are attempting to install, I have installed a few other brands, as well as a few remote starts over the years that need a similar CAN connection. I would try the star connector first or maybe see if you can get a spare connector or find some CAN wiring at the radio or ignition switch. The one thing that I would stress is to make sure you have a good solder joint, don't try to use a T-Tap or some other sort of crimped connection for the CAN wires.

 

[EViS]

Though I'm not overly familiar with the exact unit that you are attempting to install, I have installed a few other brands, as well as a few remote starts over the years that need a similar CAN connection. I would try the star connector first or maybe see if you can get a spare connector or find some CAN wiring at the radio or ignition switch. The one thing that I would stress is to make sure you have a good solder joint, don't try to use a T-Tap or some other sort of crimped connection for the CAN wires.

Thanks for the prompt reply. The only reason for wanting to avoid the star connector is due to security and being able to hide the immobiliser further back. When you say spare connector, do you mean that there may be some unused CAN connectors on the factory loom already?

In terms of connections, I plan to cut (!) the existing harness wires and re-crimp with the new wires spliced in. For reference, I use high quality Knipex crimping pliers (with the correct dies), uninsulated TE crimps and TE ATUM adhesive lined heatshrink. Could this cause an issue on the canbus that I am not considering, hence your recommendation for soldering? Or is your warning merely around the usual debate of a mediocre soldered join is always superior to a lousy crimped join ?

 

[Wild one]

Thanks for the prompt reply. The only reason for wanting to avoid the star connector is due to security and being able to hide the immobiliser further back. When you say spare connector, do you mean that there may be some unused CAN connectors on the factory loom already?

In terms of connections, I plan to cut (!) the existing harness wires and re-crimp with the new wires spliced in. For reference, I use high quality Knipex crimping pliers (with the correct dies), uninsulated TE crimps and TE ATUM adhesive lined heatshrink. Could this cause an issue on the canbus that I am not considering, hence your recommendation for soldering? Or is your warning merely around the usual debate of a mediocre soldered join is always superior to a lousy crimped join ?

Might be easier to install a kill switch in the ignition circuit,you can buy one off a member on here and it's strictly plug-n-play.

 

[Hagar1]

I plan to cut (!) the existing harness wires and re-crimp with the new wires spliced in.

If you are making a connection, make sure that it is SOLDERED not just crimped. Also, don't forget the heat shrink before the wires get soldered together.
Nothing quite like tracking down an electrical problem a few years down the road.

 

[EViS]

Might be easier to install a kill switch in the ignition circuit,you can buy one off a member on here and it's strictly plug-n-play.

I have seen this plug&play harness here, however it's a little too obvious for my liking.

 

[Lashlee]

Thanks for the prompt reply. The only reason for wanting to avoid the star connector is due to security and being able to hide the immobiliser further back. When you say spare connector, do you mean that there may be some unused CAN connectors on the factory loom already?

In terms of connections, I plan to cut (!) the existing harness wires and re-crimp with the new wires spliced in. For reference, I use high quality Knipex crimping pliers (with the correct dies), uninsulated TE crimps and TE ATUM adhesive lined heatshrink. Could this cause an issue on the canbus that I am not considering, hence your recommendation for soldering? Or is your warning merely around the usual debate of a mediocre soldered join is always superior to a lousy crimped join ?

Sorry, I didn't mean to imply that you weren't properly making a crimp, the change in resistance may cause issues with the Canbus, as well as the piece you're trying to install. The general consensus with Canbus connections is to solder them.

As for the extra connectors, there probably aren't any extras in the harness, I was hoping you could find some online that could let you simply snap in an open spot and use your own wiring to hide the module where you need to.

 

[Wild one]

I have seen this plug&play harness here, however it's a little too obvious for my liking.

Most thieves are stealing vehicles after dark,and won't waste the time looking for a hidden switch in the dark

 

[EViS]

Sorry, I didn't mean to imply that you weren't properly making a crimp, the change in resistance may cause issues with the Canbus, as well as the piece you're trying to install. The general consensus with Canbus connections is to solder them.

As for the extra connectors, there probably aren't any extras in the harness, I was hoping you could find some online that could let you simply snap in an open spot and use your own wiring to hide the module where you need to.

That's good to know, thanks! I've always avoided any work on canbus for fear of causing an unexpected issue. However, an immobiliser leaves me no choice .