Sit back and think about what...
Sit back and think about what might be happening here, keeping in mind that B&D Racing's Mason "Mase" Rowland's right arm is inside Brandon Pierce's '06 GT, he's looking toward the back of the 'Stang, and the trunk is popped open...
While we can't say for certain, we're unofficially guessing that this is the first time installing a push button has ever been the main focus of a Tech Inspection report here in 5.0 Mustang & Super Fords.
We don't blame you for wondering why a push-button switch is so important. When you think about it, late-model Mustangs are loaded with switches when they roll off the assembly line. The switches we're working with aren't make-or-break items--they're just neat enhancements that we came across while perusing AmericanMuscle.com, enhancements we think will put a subtle jolt of cool in S197 and SN-10 Mustangs.
First in this duo is a glovebox-mounted, trunk-release switch (PN 66101; $34.95), a new device that takes us back to the old days, when nearly every Mustang produced was equipped with a little yellow button in the stash compartment that unlocked the decklid or hatchback. For some reason unknown to us, Ford does not include release buttons in the glove compartments of the '05-'09 'Stangs. The kit we're installing (manufactured by Silver Horse Racing) brings this OG convenience to '05-'09s.
AmericanMuscle.com's trunk-release...
AmericanMuscle.com's trunk-release button (left) is a throwback to the early days of 'Stangbanging, when nearly every Pony on the road was outfitted with a trunk-popper button mounted in the glove compartment. The trunk-release system is new for '05-'10 Mustangs. On the other hand, the push-button ignition switch (right) for S197s has been around for a minute, but thus far hasn't received the shine we think it deserves. Adding both pieces at the same time is a painless change that you'll be glad you made.
Round two of this month's button experience has been around for a while--an ignition-switch update for S197 and SN-10 Ponies. Stack Racing's push-button ignition system (available from American Muscle; PN 41059; $79.99) gives the cockpit of '05-'10 Ponies the look and feel (in a minor way) of the mega-dollar Ford GT supercar by relocating the 'Stang's ignition function to a bright red button that sits smack in the center of the dash.
Although neither upgrade does a thing for performance, they're both low-dollar mods that will earn your Mustang positive comments and all-important cool points from those who see them in action.
Starting with the trunk-opening...
Starting with the trunk-opening system, disconnect the battery's negative cable and then locate a spot for mounting the switch behind the glovebox door. Those who remember this accessory in earlier Mustangs already know that placing the button as close to the driver's side as possible is the best location. A single 3/4-inch hole is the only opening required for both installations.
Brandon Pierce is a SoCal 'Stang-banger who digs the show side of our hobby just as much as the go, and Mason "Mase" Rowland of B&D Racing in Van Nuys, California, is the tech who handles both sides of that coin for Brandon's custom '06 GT. We watched Mase perform the minor upgrade surgery. As you'll see in the accompanying photos, each switch is easy to install (they both include harnesses and the ignition switch requires no drilling) and their fit-and-finish is OEM quality to boot. Clean mods like this are something we definitely appreciate seeing when we're checking out the different ways 'Stangbangers personalize their pride and joy. Read on and see how simple it is to do.
Wiring the remote trunk opener...
Wiring the remote trunk opener is simply a matter of installing the button in the hole, then attaching ground and power wires. The switch is powered by tapping into the Mustang's actual trunk-release circuit, which is the white/pink-stripe wire found in the harness below the passenger-side rocker panel (the rocker and kick panels are removed for access). While a Scotch-lock connector is supplied, we recommend skinning the factory wire and soldering the connection with the new trunk-switch wire.
The push-button ignition switch...
The push-button ignition switch mounts in an '05-'10 Mustang's radio/HVAC panel, replacing the 12-volt power port located right in the center. Mase starts this part of the project by removing the center console and the radio/HVAC panel (side panels for this piece also must be taken out), as well as the steering-column trim and lower-dash panel on the driver side. Installing this switch is all about having a lot of room to place its wiring harness and make necessary connections.
The 'Stang's factory ignition...
The 'Stang's factory ignition switch assembly is attached to the steering column. With the switch disconnected, Mase uses a Scotch-lock and links the primary wire from the push-button switch's harness (yellow) with the green wire on the OEM switch. When connected in this fashion, the engine actually can still be started with the key. To restrict the engine to being started only with the button, the green wire must be cut. When this plug-and-play operation is finished, Mase reconnects the battery and tests both new systems to confirm they're functioning properly and all trim panels are reinstalled.
Here's the push-button trunk...
Here's the push-button trunk switch, right where it belongs in a Mustang! The install is simple (it takes about 30 minutes), as the supplied Scotch-lock connector can be used for the electrical task if you don't have confidence to link wires with solder.
After sliding a spacer (included)...
After sliding a spacer (included) onto the back of the button, Mase sets the big red switch in place in the radio/HVAC panel. The panel may require just a bit of light sanding to ensure a clean fit. The button is secured with a locking nut, which also is supplied.
We have ignition!