Security & Theft Master keys

[MHarryE]

It’s been mentioned Cat keys are common. Reason - own a large construction company, driver takes off with key, job site disabled. More equipment is getting electronic code enabling option. So common key has been industry practice due to customer demand. Many use the “master key” as a kind of “I’ve got the power” statement. I have probably a dozen Cat keys at home because when I’ve had to leave from home to go to wherever in the world to check a customer’s machine, it’s often lucky to find the machine where the crew claimed it was left so having a key to be able to run it is required. So if theft is a concern add your own protection.

 

[Diggin It]

Another thread the victim of drift.

OP was talking about our personal machines, not major jobsites or farms with fleets of machines and staff.

I would prefer a unique key on mine, but not sure it's possible.

 

[Industrial Toys]

If the keyway can be removed, then a locksmith should be able to alter it. He might not be able to get the proper blank for the key, but may be able to alter an existing key. It would be an interesting project.

 

[Chewwy]

Not that long ago, maybe 20 years or so, that keys for farm tractors and even some industrials were not really needed. It was pretty easy to hot wire gas engines, open mechanical fuel shutoff for diesels, jumper the starter, and away you go.

 

[MossRoad]

Kubota came to pick up my tractor yesterday to add third function hydraulics. I had it ready for them when they arrived, including my spare key in the ignition switch. Well, the driver came over, I pointed to the tractor, he jumped into the cab and grabbed my spare key. He gave it back to me and then showed me all of his master keys for tractors. He said I don't need your key and besides, it could get lost over there. Do all company's have master keys for their tractors? If so, are all of these master keys secure all of the time?

Do tractors ever get stolen?

I stood there somewhat stunned as he went back, cranked it up and put it on the trailer with his master key and then left with my new tractor.

Since the topic is "Security and Theft", should I get a locksmith out here to change the locks?

What would you do?

You should do nothing. If someone really wants your tractor, they'll show up with a roll-back truck, drag it on with the winch (and dollies if necessary), and be gone in minutes.

 

[Smokeydog]

Recently while using the M59 the seat operator presents switch broke from the plastic holder from underneath the seat. The tractor would run but die if trying to use the HST pedal to move. I have a love/hate relationship with this switch. Does offer some safety of being in the seat while operating. Some frustration if I stand to better see hazards while bush hogging or using grapple or pallet forks placement. Or over bumpy ground it thinks I’m not there. Cut the OEM switch off and wired in a small water resistant rubber encased push button switch. The wiring allows it to be out of sight when the seat is tilted forward. Now a security switch. One of two hidden thief deterrent switches now on that tractor. Don’t think thieves are going to spend much time trying to search for what’s wrong.

Another poster awhile back installed a monetary switch and a relay which would bypass the seat safety switch to allow standing. Then reset when switched off. Very clever. A feature that should come that way.

 

[Industrial Toys]

Stupid little things can make a big difference. To avoid being a target, you need to make things as difficult to steal as possible.

How about a hidden switch that disconnects your starter but sounds the horn. Stuff like that rattles thieves.

 

[MossRoad]

On my gas IH2500b that I use to leave at our remote property, I used to pull my rotor from under the distributor every evening.

 

[Industrial Toys]

Did you ever leave it in another pair of pants, the next morning?

 

[grsthegreat]

I think puting in a hidden kill switch that interrupts power is a good idea for remotely stored equipment, but mine is in plain site and now that im retired, the property is hardly ever clear of people. I i had this tractor on remote property.....id have disabled equipment before leaving. I worked for an electrical contractor that had his dump truck, flatbed trailer and backhoe stollen while driver stopped to take a pee at rest station. Operator had his keys on him when police arrived. Theres no stopping a determined thief.