First off, why is this section of the forum 86-95 trucks? Weren't there a lot of changes from 86-87 carb 22r's, to later 89+ EFI 22re's?

Anyway, main question: I have an '86 SR5 4x4. The key has been filed down to a point. A buddy just told me it's probably not even the correct key, and these are super easy to steal by just filing the key down. I live in a high crime, west coast city (yay!), so I'd like to get at least decent locks (along with other measures, fuel kill switch, lock transmission, the club). I need to replace door locks anyway, they are completely shot. While I'm at it, is there a way to "upgrade" to a more modern key that won't be so easy to defeat? Thanks fellas!

 

I've never heard that.

Then again, I've never seen any lock that can't be (eventually) defeated with a slide-hammer.

 

I just recently replaced my original key at around 32 years due to it was so worn it would fall out the ignition switch on a hard turn. I could pull it out while the engine as running. I can believe it wouldn't take much of a key to start these trucks.

I also added a simple, cheap, and easy to install disconnect switch inline with the clutch start safety switch so it disables all starting attempts. The switch is very accessible and well hidden, not under the dash. It will disable the truck from being started unless you pop the hood and jump the stater and that's a lot of work for a car thief.

 

I got matching door and ignition cylinders / keys off ebay several years ago...I think they were advertised for a hilux and it took some digging to make sure they'd work. I believe they came from Thailand. I think they're higher security than stock...Toyota allegedly didn't make that many different keys for these trucks...but a new key definitely won't keep your rig safe anyway. The other measures you mention are a good way to go, and maybe consider a gps tracker.

 

It's the ignition lock that's going to be the weak spot. Scope103 is right, your basic slide hammer will defeat any lock you install in seconds. They'll just rip the ignition lock out and use a screwdriver to start.
If you can find a lock cylinder set that has all the locks together that's great.
I bought a rekeying kit off eBay. I pulled the right door interior panel off and got the key code off the passenger door lock and had a fresh key cut, then rekeyed the locks using the new key.

 

consider moving.

 

Locks will only deter the thieves checking doors at the Home Depot parking lot hoping to score spare change in your ashtray.
Thieves got around the “Club” pretty quickly. They learned to carry a spare steering wheel. Pulls yours off, put theirs on.
I don’t put much stock in alarm systems. They only seem to work when you don’t want them to, and annoy the neighbors. You just end up cutting up your factory harness with little gain.
Those locks/boots that bolt to the wheel and rim do look interesting.
A fuel cut off could be effective. I thought about installing a siren under the cowl that would be triggered by the ignition unless you hit a kill switch.

I dug a post hole next to my driveway, then dropped in the biggest chain I could get and filled with 180 lbs of concrete. I had about 4 ft of chain coming out of the cemented hole. I wrap the chain around my steering rod and lock it. The lock is defeatable, I’m just hoping whoever tries to steal it gets a rude shock when they back up and come to a slamming stop. It does surprise you, I’ve done it a few times when I forgot😂

 

This really wants for a picture!