Tailgate window remote control

[regal403]

So my tailgate window works fine and the factory switch in the dash, though a little loose in the bezel, works fine as well.

Problem is, I don't have a key for the tailgate lock/switch. This makes accessing the cargo area cumbersome since I have to get inside to push the button to roll down the window, then walk around back and open the tailgate.

Has anyone wired in a remote control DPDT switch for this window? They're fairly cheap on Amazon.

Amazon.com

It'd be nice to hit the button as I'm walking across the grocery store parking lot and have the window open for me when my hands are full.

 

[Gentleman Jimmy]

I have not tried it on the window, but that would be pretty sweet! I did use one for the hood on my dad’s C10 so he wouldn’t have to crawl under to release the hood. I found it would drain the battery fairly quickly when on constant 12v. Ended up having to switch it to a keyed 12v which would defeat your purpose. Something to think about.
I brought the barrel to my locksmith when I restored my tailgate, and he re keyed it for like $15.

 

[regal403]

I hadn't considered the chance of a slow parasitic drain, good point.

Also, I didn't realize how cheap a rekey would be. That's probably the best way to go. New key switches are $100 at Motor City K5.

 

[rampage]

If you’re considering on mounting the remote receiver inside the tailgate then you might want to think twice since the metal gate would act like a Faraday cage. It would either shorten the distance it would receive a signal considerably or not work altogether.

 

[Big10]

i have a switch hidden under the tail lens. it works great, very convenient.

 

[Blue85]

I always get deja vu on here.

https://ck5.com/forums/threads/rear-window-idea.329249/
https://ck5.com/forums/threads/remote-keyless-entry-rke.331827/
https://ck5.com/forums/threads/k5-tailgate-key-switch.339726/

 

[bu2chlc]

Being a computer nerd, I am thinking about this and might try something unique on this. I have been wanting an easy to operate way of getting my back window down (for shopping for example). I am thinking a simple exterior switch would work. Not secure but no parasitic drain.

Next step up would be to put a bluetooth reader or RFID reader between the switch and the motor. Hit the switch and it turns on a bluetooth reader. Maybe put a keyfob on my keychain like newer cars have. If I am nearby, it would sense my keyfob and the switch would work. Still zero parasitic drain but more secure.

Next step might be an ultrasonic sensor under the rear bumper that is turned off when the key is on the on position (dont want to drive down the road and the sensor thinks I waved my foot under it and rolling the window down!). Now we have the same functions that the brand new cars have. How to minimize parasitic draw from a constantly on ultrasonic sensor would be a challenge.

Ultimate nerd mode ON:
put a raspberry pi in the blazer. Set up a 4g cellular card (I have already done that part) and program it to accept text messages with the correct code and roll down/up the rear window. Battery life would go down to a week or two at best bragging rights might be worth it!