Ours were keyed too but there was a gunlock timer triggered when ignition was on. Hit the button and it would unlock for about 10 seconds. That way they didn't have to get the key out in a hurry.
I saw one of those buttons on a ex patrol car at a local auction. The car came from our local police department. It had a plastic trim ring around it with the letters stamped "OID 911". I was told it stood for Officer In Distress Emergency, basically meaning that for what ever reason an officer needs to push that button, all other available officers would be directed to converge on that particular location. The trim ring surrounding the button was kinda like a shallow cup shape, preventing it from inadvertently being pushed.
Bert, could be, I was just guessing as ours were locked, but we kept the keys in the lock for quick access when on patrol. The tail light override was for turning the tail lights off when trying to remain less of a target at night. I know that many Depts. do it differently and that things have changed since I left Patrol for a Detective spot in the mid 80's. I think they might have been connected to the ignition later on.
Motor Transport Division in the city I worked, did a cost analysis over several years. Chrysler products, although cheaper to purchase initially, cost more overall due to maint. We began using Crown Vic's in '89 (I think) because of that. Now using Explorers.
We received new Plymouths in '70. I guess that I was the first to open the pass door. It fell off! Only one bolt on the top hinge was installed. A fluke, or typical of Chrysler QC?. I don't know, but it was good for a laugh. Not many of the "troops" drove Chrysler products after experiencing their police cars.
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