BryanKephart

thanks I'll research it a little more

broderp

I was under the impression that STX was bare bones, no frills work truck (carpeting was optional..lol)

Here's my take on what you might have:
Your truck, like mine ONLY has the PATS system. You also have whats called a bypass module that acts like a key to start the truck. (You said this was plugged into the factory security.) This is how the truck starts without the key. The bypass that's there fools the ECU and PATS into thinking it has key. Your remote start and alarm is tied into the bypass module and trucks wiring to energize and start the truck.

The remote start/alarm taps into the wires supplying voltage that start and keep the car running. It's also tied into the brake switch and light switch. When it senses brake or lights being used, it shuts off the truck. When you put your key into the ignition and turn it to the run position, the original factory connection is back in play. The remote starter actually shuts down, but the Ford wiring thru the normal hardness keeps the truck running and you never notice that the alarm or remote start is now off. What I'm not sure of is if the PATS system is still working off the Bypass module pass code or if it rereads the keys code. I suppose if someone had a non-chipped key and tried to use it after the truck was started with the remote we would know.

Can I ask a question: Does your remote start turn on the marker lights? If so, when you place your key in the ignition and turn it to the run position, and press on the brake, do your lights go off? (Do you need to turn them on manual after the key is on and before you drive off?) If so, this may also support my point that the starter/alarm is shut down as it was keeping the paring lights on to begin with.

What I'm not so sure is if the PATS system reads the key that's inserted when you drive off or if it's still reading the code generated by the bypass module. I suppose if someone had a key without a chip, you could test this. If the car stayed running, then the bypass module is stores in the ECU/PATS system or if it shuts off then the key's chip code is updated and is required.

broderp

Here is an example of a popular starter and bypass module:


The link should show an option for the product "4103LX + Bypass Module" for around $85. Makes you wonder how places that install these charge $300+ for the same thing. They must be making a killing!

FYI: I'm not supporting this product, just showing you. I'm concerned that Directed (the manufacturer of the above remote starter) does not support customers. You have to be a dealer and they state they have no warranty unless installed by an authorized dealer.