How Does It Work?
The CAT SAFEGUARD catalytic converter alarm system ("the alarm system") uses state of the art artificial intelligence to identify items that enter its detection zones--it can distinguish between animals, humans, and inanimate objects that might be blowing or rolling around under your vehicle.
When the alarm system detects a presence under your vehicle it enters a threat detection and mitigation state that quickly evaluates the threat and engages (aka "sets off") a piercing alarm under the vehicle that appears to be simultaneously coming from everywhere and nowhere. The intent is that most thieves will get the message and won't want to stick around long enough to try and remove your converter--they'll go somewhere else where the pickings are easier.
If the thief is deterred, then the alarm system will continue to listen quietly in case he decides to return. Once the system decides that the threat is over it will resume its normal under-vehicle monitoring.
However, in the unlikely event that the thief doesn't get the message the system will activate--that is, "set off" your vehicle alarm--including blowing your horn, flashing your lights etc., depending of course on your vehicle's alarm features.
The photos that follow illustrate the major components of the CAT SAFEGUARD system:
The Power & Vehicle Interface Cable (Figure 1 below):
The Power & Vehicle Interface Cable supplies vehicle power to the system. It also monitors the state of the Hood Latch assembly and passes that data to the Main Module (described below). The Power & Vehicle Interface Cable includes connectors which allow it to be inserted between the Ford factory harness and the Hood Latch assembly, as well as fuse taps that allow it to be connected into the vehicle's power.
Figure 1: Power & Vehicle Interface Cable
The Main Module (Figure 2 below):
The Main Module is the "brain" of the system. It mounts to the top surface of the vehicle's rear transmission crossmember via a powerfule magnet. The module accepts power from the Power & Vehicle Interface Cable as well as sensor inputs from the Sensor Assemblies described below.
Figure 2: Main Module
The Sensor Assemblies (Figure 3 below):
The Sensor Assemblies attach to the vehicle's driver's side and passenger side exhaust pipes immediately aft of the two catalytic converters. They connect to the Main Module via waterproof connectors. Any attempt to move or disconnect the sensors will activate the alarm. The gold rectangular items in the photo are high temperature insulators that wrap around the vehicle's exhaust pipes and are held in place by the included exhaust clamps.
Figure 3: Sensor Assemblies
The Cellular Antenna and Included Cable (Figure 4 below):
The cellular antenna allows CAT SAFEGUARD to communicate with the owner's cellular phone. If the system detects any under-vehicle activity it will call the owner's or other designated phone to alert the owner of the possibility of intrusion.
Figure 4: Antanna and Cable
36 Inch Long Zip Ties (Figure 5 below):
The 36 inch zip ties go around the vehicle's main frame rails (two on each side). They provide tie points for securing various system wires as described in the installation instructions.
Figure 5: 36 Inch Zip Ties
Shields (Figure 6 below):
The shields prevent access to the vehicle's catalytic converter outlet pipes. The system includes two shields--one beneath each exhaust pipe. The shields are secured to the sensor assemblies via rivets, which can be installed using any readily-available hand riveting tool. These tools are generally available for less than $10 at any big box store.
Figure 6: Sensor Shield (One Shown of Two)
Miscellaneous Hardware (Figure 7 below):
The miscellaneous hardware package includes the required toggle bolt assemblies and magnetic cable tie mounts that serve to secure CAT SAFEGUARD wiring as required. It also contains tamper-resistant screws to secure the vehicle's heat shield to the vehicle. Installation bits are included.
Figure 7: Miscellaneous Hardware