Smaller Key Fob

[Rahneld]

@wordslayer


Acquire a 1.5mm hex wrench and a Container Store "X-Small Hinged Box," 2-3/8"x1-3/4"x1/2"h box, SKU number 10054862

https://www.containerstore.com/s/collections/hobby/hinged-boxes/12d?productId=10032173

Open the factory key fob as per the owner's manual with a flat edge at the point just below my thumb as shown below. Work your way around the fob until with the flat edge until the cover is free:

Once opened, use the Allen Wrench to undo the 4 screws shown below. (I've already removed the one in the upper right.) Press down on the Allen Wrench and turn it counterclockwise, or the fob clockwise holding the wrench stationary if easier.

With the screws removed separate the circuit board cover/battery holder from the circuit board:

Gently pull up on the circuit board to remove it.

Attach the battery to the circuit board with a rubber band. Make sure not to interfere with any of the buttons on the other side. Grab the battery from all sides so it won't slide:

Place the circuit board and battery, battery side down, in the purchased case and shut the lid, which is flexible enough to actuate the buttons without opening the case and keep things reasonable water tight.

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If you wish to reinstall the fob as you found it, put the physical key opening button upside down into its place, followed by the key, followed by the spring, with the end of the spring with a metal tab facing up.

Put this metal tab inside the space for it in the part of key fob that rests on top of and this metal tab, (along with the battery,) and spin this part that grabs the metal tab one revolution counterclockwise to load energy into the spring, and reinstall.

**** See this for including transponder chip**** https://www.jlwranglerforums.com/forum/threads/smaller-key-fob.25099/page-3#post-641562

: - )

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[se7en]

I'm sorry. What's the point of this?

I seriously don't know...not bashing.

 

[Alpha Delta]

I'm sorry. What's the point of this?

I seriously don't know...not bashing.

The key fob obviously died and he’s giving it a proper burial.

 

[Rahneld]

I'm sorry. What's the point of this?

I seriously don't know...not bashing.

A fair number of owners think the fob too big. This makes it take up less space and still get you on your way, in a pretty protective and water tight enclosure.

It'd be silly to expect it everyone's cup of tea. Note even my Gibson fob holder in the back of the first picture.

: - )

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[sdynak]

A fair number of owners think the fob too big. This makes it take up less space and still get you on your way, in a pretty protective and water tight enclosure.

It'd be silly to expect it everyone's cup of tea. Note even my Gibson fob holder in the back of the first picture.

: - )

`~~~~~

That actually looks bigger no? I'm not trying to be funny.

 

[Arterius2]

that thing is definitely not smaller..

 

[rockadile]

Like like it is at least thinner though I would be worried about it being more easily damaged.

 

[Joeymon1]

People that buy Jeeps just can't leave anything alone.

 

[DaltonGang]

Uhhhhh, no!

 

[Arterius2]

I have a better idea... plasti-dip or rhino liner the circuit board

 

[Cwu21]

Looks unfinished in my opinion. I would doubt anyone would go for that given its unfinished look.

 

[sdynak]

It is only useful for those with proximity locks as well.. not everyone has that.

 

[chadly25]

Ashton, is that you?

 

[Rahneld]

The key fob from MOPAR is about, to my measurement, 2-7/8" tall, by 1-11/16" wide by 9/16" thick.

The Container Store box is, as stated 2-3/8"x1-3/4"x1/2"h, so it is smaller and feels so, particular because it's thinner. One of Its dimensions is more like an 1/8" shorter at 2-1/4": not a big deal I'm the first to admit.

It just barely encapsulates the electronics without the key, so it's going to be smaller, in fact I think people would be hard pressed to find a smaller container for the electronics alone.

The box provides a relatively rigid container against basic crushing that would definitely not be useful "to jack you tires with," but the box cover is flexible enough that it can be finger pressed and easily actuate the buttons beneath, while keeping the electronics water proof, and while not go off accidentally in your pocket--even if cramped.

That it's unfinished...? Its a $2.00 solution to those who complain, and there have been many, that the fob's too big for their pocket. Your pocket won't mind what it looks like. : - )

Paint it, put stickers on it, don't use it, wait for Adam Trunkey's solution to come out with his replacement fob: which will be larger, more pricey, sturdier, more stylish, and probably still also won't jack any tires. I know I'm going to try it out while I stick with my previously mentioned Gibson holster, until maybe summer makes my wish for a smaller key and this solution more alluring.

If it's not for you, that's cool. If you want to build on the idea, great. If you want to take another direction, or no direction at all: go for it. : - )

Like I said above, it may not be your cup of tea. (It may not even be mine all the time.) This is about giving people options and knowledge; not forcing them.

Maybe you want to carry just a physical key, or hide a dead fob in your rig and press the start button with it, or an energized one in a Faraday bag. It's all good! There are excellent posts here on that.

Some pictures for size comparison follow. I wish I had the proximity locks someone above wrongly said this only works with. Cheers and peace.

: - )


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[se7en]

That helps the size argument. Didn't look that much smaller on your initial post.

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