1998 DODGE RAM 1500 Vents

(9) Remove the screw that secures the seat belt
web guide to the inner B-pillar near the belt line.
(10) Remove the seat belt web guide from the
inner B-pillar.
(11) Disengage the seat belt tensioner pigtail wire
retainer from the hole in the inner B-pillar sheet
metal.
(12) Disconnect the yellow seat belt tensioner pig-
tail wire connector from the body wire harness take
out and connector for the tensioner.
(13) Remove the screw that secures the lower
retractor bracket to the lower inner B-pillar below
the retractor mounting hole.
(14) Disengage the hooks on the upper retractor
bracket from the slots in the lower inner B-pillar
above the retractor mounting hole.
(15) Remove the front outboard seat belt and
retractor from the retractor mounting hole in the
lower inner B-pillar.
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - STANDARD CAB
The following procedure is for replacement of a
faulty or damaged front outboard seat belt and
retractor unit, which includes a seat belt tensioner
for this model. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RE-
STRAINTS/SEAT BELT TENSIONER - DESCRIP-
TION). The only component of this seat belt and
retractor unit that is available for individual service
replacement is the plastic web stop button that pre-
vents the latch plate from falling to the floor while in
the stored position. Refer to the instructions supplied
with the service kit for the proper web stop button
replacement procedures.
The seat belt retractor on the driver's side of stan-
dard cab models only also includes a tension reducer.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/TENSION
REDUCER - DESCRIPTION). The seat belt retractor
on the passenger's side of all models includes a swit-
chable automatic locking mechanism. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/AUTOMATIC LOCK-
ING RETRACTOR - DESCRIPTION).
If the seat belt or retractor is faulty or damaged,
but the seat belt tensioner is not deployed, review
the recommended procedures for handling non-de-
ployed supplemental restraints. (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PROCEDURE
- HANDLING NON-DEPLOYED SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINTS). If the seat belt tensioner has been
deployed, review the recommended procedures for
service after a supplemental restraint deployment
before removing the front outboard seat belt and
retractor from the vehicle. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PROCEDURE -SERVICE AFTER A SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
DEPLOYMENT).
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS,
DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, AIRBAG, SEAT BELT
TENSIONER, IMPACT SENSOR, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGA-
TIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES
FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT BELT
OR CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHOR SERVICE, CARE-
FULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT BELTS, BUCKLES,
MOUNTING HARDWARE, RETRACTORS, TETHER
STRAPS, AND ANCHORS FOR PROPER INSTALLA-
TION, OPERATION, OR DAMAGE. REPLACE ANY
BELT THAT IS CUT, FRAYED, OR TORN.
STRAIGHTEN ANY BELT THAT IS TWISTED.
TIGHTEN ANY LOOSE FASTENERS. REPLACE ANY
BELT THAT HAS A DAMAGED OR INOPERATIVE
BUCKLE OR RETRACTOR. REPLACE ANY BELT
THAT HAS A BENT OR DAMAGED LATCH PLATE
OR ANCHOR PLATE. REPLACE ANY CHILD
RESTRAINT ANCHOR OR THE UNIT TO WHICH THE
ANCHOR IS INTEGRAL THAT HAS BEEN BENT OR
DAMAGED. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENT.
ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED OR FAULTY SEAT
BELT AND CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENTS WITH
THE CORRECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENT
PARTS LISTED IN THE DAIMLERCHRYSLER MOPAR
PARTS CATALOG.
(1) Position the front outboard seat belt and
retractor to the retractor mounting hole in the lower
inner B-pillar (Fig. 31).
(2) Engage the hooks on the upper retractor
bracket into the slots in the lower inner B-pillar
above the retractor mounting hole.
(3) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
lower retractor bracket to the lower inner B-pillar
below the retractor mounting hole. Tighten the screw
to 40 N´m (29 ft. lbs.).
DRRESTRAINTS 8O - 35
FRONT OUTBOARD SEAT BELT & RETRACTOR (Continued)

(4) Reconnect the yellow seat belt tensioner pigtail
wire connector to the body wire harness take out and
connector for the tensioner.
(5) Engage the seat belt tensioner pigtail wire
retainer into the hole in the inner B-pillar sheet
metal.
(6) On the driver side only, reconnect the body
wire harness take out and white connector to the
seat belt tension reducer connector receptacle near
the bottom of the retractor.
(7) Position the seat belt web guide to its mount-
ing location on the inner B-pillar near the belt line.
(8) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
seat belt web guide to the inner B-pillar. Tighten the
screw to 2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(9) Reinstall the upper and lower trim onto the
inner B-pillar. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/B-
PILLAR UPPER TRIM - INSTALLATION) and
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/B-PILLAR LOWER
TRIM - INSTALLATION).
(10) Position the seat belt turning loop onto the
height adjuster on the upper inner B-pillar.
(11) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
seat belt turning loop to the height adjuster. Tighten
the screw to 40 N´m (29 ft. lbs.).
(12) Engage the lower snap features of the new
trim cover over the front outboard seat belt turning
loop and, using hand pressure, press firmly and
evenly on the top of the trim cover until it snaps into
place.
(13) Position the lower seat belt anchor to the
lower inner B-pillar.
(14) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
lower seat belt anchor to the B-pillar. Tighten the
screw to 40 N´m (29 ft. lbs.).
(15) Do not reconnect the battery negative cable at
this time. The supplemental restraint system verifi-
cation test procedure should be performed following
service of any supplemental restraint system compo-
nent. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - VERIFICATION TEST).
(16) Move the front seat back to its rearward posi-
tion.INSTALLATION - QUAD CAB
The following procedure is for replacement of a
faulty or damaged front outboard seat belt and
retractor unit, which includes a seat belt tensioner
for this model. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RE-
STRAINTS/SEAT BELT TENSIONER - DESCRIP-
TION). The only component of this seat belt and
retractor unit that is available for individual service
replacement is the plastic web stop button that pre-
vents the latch plate from falling to the floor while in
the stored position. Refer to the instructions supplied
with the service kit for the proper web stop button
replacement procedures.
The seat belt retractor on the passenger's side of
all models includes a switchable automatic locking
mechanism. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RE-
STRAINTS/AUTOMATIC LOCKING RETRACTOR -
DESCRIPTION).
If the seat belt or retractor is faulty or damaged,
but the seat belt tensioner is not deployed, review
the recommended procedures for handling non-de-
ployed supplemental restraints. (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PROCEDURE
- HANDLING NON-DEPLOYED SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINTS). If the seat belt tensioner has been
deployed, review the recommended procedures for
service after a supplemental restraint deployment
before removing the front outboard seat belt and
retractor from the vehicle. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
SERVICE AFTER A SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
DEPLOYMENT).
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS,
DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, AIRBAG, SEAT BELT
TENSIONER, IMPACT SENSOR, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGA-
TIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES
FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
8O - 36 RESTRAINTSDR
FRONT OUTBOARD SEAT BELT & RETRACTOR (Continued)

The passenger airbag on/off switch housing is con-
structed of molded plastic and has three integral
mounting tabs. These mounting tabs are used to
secure the switch to the back of the molded plastic
switch face plate with three small screws. The
molded plastic face plate also has three integral
mounting tabs that are used to secure the switch and
face plate unit to the instrument panel center bezel
with three additional screws. A molded plastic con-
nector receptacle on the back of the switch housing
connects the switch to the vehicle electrical system
through a dedicated take out and connector of the
instrument panel wire harness. The molded plastic
harness connector insulator is keyed and latched to
ensure proper and secure switch electrical connec-
tions. The passenger airbag on/off switch cannot be
adjusted or repaired and, if faulty or damaged, the
switch must be replaced.
OPERATION
The passenger airbag on/off switch allows the cus-
tomer to turn the passenger airbag function On or
Off to accommodate certain uses of the right front
seating position where airbag protection may not be
desired. See the owner's manual in the vehicle glove
box for specific recommendations on when to enable
or disable the passenger airbag. The Off indicator of
the switch will be illuminated whenever the switch is
turned to the Off position and the ignition switch is
in the On position.
The ignition key is the only key or object that
should ever be inserted into the key cylinder actuator
of the switch. The on/off switch requires only a par-
tial key insertion to fully depress a spring-loaded
locking plunger. The spring-loaded locking plunger
prevents the user from leaving the key in the switch.
The key will be automatically ejected when force is
not applied. To actuate the passenger airbag on/off
switch, insert the ignition key into the switch key
actuator far enough to fully depress the plunger, then
rotate the actuator to the desired switch position.
When the switch key actuator is rotated to its clock-
wise stop (the key actuator slot will be aligned with
the Off indicator), the Off indicator is illuminated
and the passenger airbag is disabled. When the
switch is rotated to its counterclockwise stop (the key
actuator slot will be in a vertical position), the Off
indicator will be extinguished and the passenger air-
bag is enabled.The passenger airbag on/off switch connects one of
two internal resistors in series between the passen-
ger airbag mux switch sense and passenger airbag
mux switch return circuits of the Airbag Control
Module (ACM). The ACM continually monitors the
resistance in these circuits to determine the switch
position that has been selected. When the switch is
in the Off position, the ACM provides a ground input
to the switch through the passenger airbag indicator
driver circuit, which energizes the Light-Emitting
Diode (LED) that illuminates the Off indicator of the
switch.
The ACM will also illuminate the Off indicator of
the switch for about seven seconds each time the
ignition switch is turned to the On position as a bulb
test. The ACM will store a Diagnostic Trouble Code
(DTC) for any fault it detects in the passenger airbag
on/off switch or Off indicator circuits, and will illumi-
nate the airbag indicator in the instrument cluster if
a fault is detected. For proper diagnosis of the pas-
senger airbag on/off switch or the ACM, a DRBIIIt
scan tool is required. Refer to the appropriate diag-
nostic information.
REMOVAL
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS,
DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, AIRBAG, SEAT BELT
TENSIONER, IMPACT SENSOR, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGA-
TIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES
FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Wait two minutes for the system capacitor to
discharge before further service.
(2) Remove the center bezel from the instrument
panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/
INSTRUMENT PANEL CENTER BEZEL -
REMOVAL).
(3) From the back of the center bezel, remove the
three screws that secure the passenger airbag on/off
switch and face plate unit to the back of the bezel
(Fig. 40).
(4) Remove the passenger airbag on/off switch and
face plate from the center bezel as a unit.
DRRESTRAINTS 8O - 43
PASSENGER AIRBAG ON/OFF SWITCH (Continued)

WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT BELT
OR CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHOR SERVICE, CARE-
FULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT BELTS, BUCKLES,
MOUNTING HARDWARE, RETRACTORS, TETHER
STRAPS, AND ANCHORS FOR PROPER INSTALLA-
TION, OPERATION, OR DAMAGE. REPLACE ANY
BELT THAT IS CUT, FRAYED, OR TORN.
STRAIGHTEN ANY BELT THAT IS TWISTED.
TIGHTEN ANY LOOSE FASTENERS. REPLACE ANY
BELT THAT HAS A DAMAGED OR INOPERATIVE
BUCKLE OR RETRACTOR. REPLACE ANY BELT
THAT HAS A BENT OR DAMAGED LATCH PLATE
OR ANCHOR PLATE. REPLACE ANY CHILD
RESTRAINT ANCHOR OR THE UNIT TO WHICH THE
ANCHOR IS INTEGRAL THAT HAS BEEN BENT OR
DAMAGED. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENT.
ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED OR FAULTY SEAT
BELT AND CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENTS WITH
THE CORRECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENT
PARTS LISTED IN THE DAIMLERCHRYSLER MOPAR
PARTS CATALOG.
(1) Position the rear center seat belt and retractor
unit onto the center anchor/right outboard occupant
buckle and mounting bracket unit on the rear floor
panel near the base of the cab back panel (Fig. 42).
(2) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
rear center seat belt retractor bracket to the center
anchor/right outboard occupant buckle and mounting
bracket unit. Tighten the screw to 40 N´m (29 ft.
lbs.).
(3) Position the belt bracket of the rear center seat
belt onto the body bracket on the upper cab back
panel reinforcement (Fig. 41).
(4) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the belt bracket of the rear center seat belt to the
body bracket. Tighten the screws to 20 N´m (15 ft.
lbs.).
(5) Lift the webbing of the rear center seat belt
and slide the cover over the belt bracket at the top of
the cab back panel until it is fully seated.
(6) Route the rear center seat belt bezel over the
webbing of the rear center seat belt.
(7) Position the rear center seat belt bezel over the
cover and belt bracket at the top of the cab back
panel and engage the rearward snap features of the
bezel with the belt bracket. Using hand pressure,
press firmly and evenly downward on the front of the
bezel until it snaps into place over the cover and belt
bracket.
(8) Reinstall the rear seat into the vehicle. On
models with the optional 60/40 split rear bench, only
the 60 percent section (right side) of the rear seat
must be reinstalled. (Refer to 23 - BODY/SEATS/
SEAT - REAR - INSTALLATION).(9) Reach between the rear seat cushion and the
rear seat back to buckle the rear center seat belt
lower anchor latch plate to the unique black, keyed
lower anchor buckle.
REAR OUTBOARD SEAT BELT
& RETRACTOR
REMOVAL
The only component of this seat belt and retractor
unit that is available for individual service replace-
ment is the plastic web stop button that prevents the
latch plate from falling to the floor while in the
stored position. Refer to the instructions supplied
with the service kit for the proper web stop button
replacement procedures.
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT BELT
OR CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHOR SERVICE, CARE-
FULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT BELTS, BUCKLES,
MOUNTING HARDWARE, RETRACTORS, TETHER
STRAPS, AND ANCHORS FOR PROPER INSTALLA-
TION, OPERATION, OR DAMAGE. REPLACE ANY
BELT THAT IS CUT, FRAYED, OR TORN.
STRAIGHTEN ANY BELT THAT IS TWISTED.
TIGHTEN ANY LOOSE FASTENERS. REPLACE ANY
BELT THAT HAS A DAMAGED OR INOPERATIVE
BUCKLE OR RETRACTOR. REPLACE ANY BELT
THAT HAS A BENT OR DAMAGED LATCH PLATE
OR ANCHOR PLATE. REPLACE ANY CHILD
RESTRAINT ANCHOR OR THE UNIT TO WHICH THE
ANCHOR IS INTEGRAL THAT HAS BEEN BENT OR
DAMAGED. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENT.
ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED OR FAULTY SEAT
BELT AND CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENTS WITH
THE CORRECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENT
PARTS LISTED IN THE DAIMLERCHRYSLER MOPAR
PARTS CATALOG.
(1) Remove the rear seat from the vehicle. (Refer
to 23 - BODY/SEATS/SEAT - REAR - REMOVAL).
(2) Remove the screw that secures the lower seat
belt anchor to the base of the inner C-pillar (Fig. 43).
(3) Remove the lower seat belt anchor from the
base of the inner C-pillar.
(4) Unsnap and remove the trim cover from the
rear outboard seat belt turning loop to access the
screw that secures the turning loop to the upper
inner C-pillar. Discard the removed turning loop trim
cover as it is not intended for reuse.
(5) Remove the screw that secures the seat belt
turning loop to the C-pillar.
8O - 46 RESTRAINTSDR
REAR CENTER SEAT BELT & RETRACTOR (Continued)

(6) Remove the seat belt turning loop from the
upper inner C-pillar.
(7) Remove the upper and lower trim from the
inner C-pillar. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/C-
PILLAR UPPER TRIM - REMOVAL) and (Refer to
23 - BODY/INTERIOR/C-PILLAR LOWER TRIM -
REMOVAL).
(8) Remove the screw that secures the seat belt
web guide to the inner C-pillar near the belt line.
(9) Remove the seat belt web guide from the inner
C-pillar.
(10) Remove the screw that secures the lower
retractor bracket to the lower inner C-pillar below
the retractor mounting hole.
(11) Disengage the hook on the upper retractor
bracket from the slot in the lower inner C-pillar
above the retractor mounting hole.
(12) Remove the rear outboard seat belt and
retractor from the retractor mounting hole in the
lower inner C-pillar.
INSTALLATION
The only component of this seat belt and retractor
unit that is available for individual service replace-
ment is the plastic web stop button that prevents the
latch plate from falling to the floor while in the
stored position. Refer to the instructions supplied
with the service kit for the proper web stop button
replacement procedures.
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT BELT
OR CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHOR SERVICE, CARE-
FULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT BELTS, BUCKLES,
MOUNTING HARDWARE, RETRACTORS, TETHER
STRAPS, AND ANCHORS FOR PROPER INSTALLA-
TION, OPERATION, OR DAMAGE. REPLACE ANY
BELT THAT IS CUT, FRAYED, OR TORN.
STRAIGHTEN ANY BELT THAT IS TWISTED.
TIGHTEN ANY LOOSE FASTENERS. REPLACE ANY
BELT THAT HAS A DAMAGED OR INOPERATIVE
BUCKLE OR RETRACTOR. REPLACE ANY BELT
THAT HAS A BENT OR DAMAGED LATCH PLATE
OR ANCHOR PLATE. REPLACE ANY CHILD
RESTRAINT ANCHOR OR THE UNIT TO WHICH THE
ANCHOR IS INTEGRAL THAT HAS BEEN BENT OR
DAMAGED. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENT.
ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED OR FAULTY SEAT
BELT AND CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENTS WITH
THE CORRECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENT
PARTS LISTED IN THE DAIMLERCHRYSLER MOPAR
PARTS CATALOG.
(1) Position the rear outboard seat belt and retrac-
tor to the retractor mounting hole in the lower inner
C-pillar (Fig. 43).
(2) Engage the hook on the upper retractor bracket
into the slot in the lower inner C-pillar above the
retractor mounting hole.
(3) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
lower retractor bracket to the lower inner C-pillar
below the retractor mounting hole. Tighten the screw
to 40 N´m (29 ft. lbs.).
(4) Position the seat belt web guide to the inner
C-pillar near the belt line.
(5) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
seat belt web guide to the inner C-pillar. Tighten the
screw to 2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(6) Reinstall the upper and lower trim onto the
inner C-pillar. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/C-
PILLAR UPPER TRIM - INSTALLATION) and
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/C-PILLAR LOWER
TRIM - INSTALLATION).
(7) Position the seat belt turning loop onto the
upper inner C-pillar.
Fig. 43 Rear Outboard Seat Belt & Retractor
Remove/Install
1 - C-PILLAR
2 - TRIM PANEL
3 - TURNING LOOP
4 - SCREW
5 - TRIM COVER
6 - SEAT BELT
7 - SCREW
8 - LOWER ANCHOR
9 - SCREW
10 - SCREW
11 - RETRACTOR
12 - WEB GUIDE
DRRESTRAINTS 8O - 47
REAR OUTBOARD SEAT BELT & RETRACTOR (Continued)

the wiper motor was operating at high speed, the
FCM immediately de-energizes the wiper high/low
relay causing the wiper motor to return to low speed
operation. Then one of two events will occur. The
event that occurs depends upon the position of the
wiper blades on the windshield at the moment that
the control knob Off position is selected.
If the wiper blades are in the down position on the
windshield when the Off position is selected, the
park switch that is integral to the wiper motor is
closed to ground and provides a hard wired park
switch sense input to the FCM. The FCM then de-en-
ergizes the wiper on/off relay and the wiper motor
ceases to operate. If the wiper blades are not in the
down position on the windshield at the moment the
Off position is selected, the park switch is an open
circuit and the FCM keeps the wiper on/off relay
energized, which causes the wiper motor to continue
running at low speed until the wiper blades are in
the down position on the windshield and the park
switch input to the FCM is again closed to ground.
INTERMITTENT WIPE MODE
When the control knob on the control stalk of the
multi-function switch is moved to one of the Delay
interval positions the instrument cluster sends an
electronic wiper switch delay message to the FCM,
then the FCM electronic intermittent wipe logic cir-
cuit responds by calculating the correct length of
time between wiper sweeps based upon the selected
delay interval input. The FCM monitors the changing
state of the wiper motor park switch through a hard
wired park switch sense input. This input allows the
FCM to determine the proper intervals at which to
energize and de-energize the wiper on/off relay to
operate the wiper motor intermittently for one low
speed cycle at a time.
The FCM logic is also programmed to provide vehi-
cle speed sensitivity to the selected intermittent wipe
delay intervals. In order to provide this feature the
FCM monitors electronic vehicle speed messages
from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and dou-
bles the selected delay interval whenever the vehicle
speed is about sixteen kilometers-per-hour (ten miles-
per-hour) or less.
PULSE WIPE MODE
When the control knob on the control stalk of the
multi-function switch is depressed to the momentary
Wash position for less than about one-half second,
the instrument cluster sends an electronic washer
switch message to the FCM, then the FCM the ener-
gizes the wiper on/off relay for one complete wipe
cycle. The FCM de-energizes the relay when the state
of the park switch sense changes to ground, parking
the wiper blades near the base of the windshield.WASH MODE
When the control knob on the control stalk of the
multi-function switch is depressed to the momentary
Wash position for more than about one-half second,
the instrument cluster sends an electronic washer
switch message to the FCM, then the FCM directs
battery current to the washer pump/motor unit. This
will cause the washer pump/motor unit to be ener-
gized for as long as the Wash switch is held closed up
to about thirty seconds, and to de-energize when the
front Wash switch is released.
When the control knob is depressed to the momen-
tary Wash position while the wiper system is operat-
ing in one of the Delay interval positions, the washer
pump/motor operation is the same. However, the
FCM also energizes the wiper on/off relay to override
the selected delay interval and operate the wiper
motor in a continuous low speed mode for as long as
the control knob is held depressed, then de-energizes
the relay and reverts to the selected delay mode
interval several wipe cycles after the control knob is
released. If the control knob is held depressed for
more than about thirty seconds, the FCM will sus-
pend washer pump/motor operation until the knob is
released for about two seconds, then cycled back to
the Wash position.
WIPE-AFTER-WASH MODE
When the control knob on the control stalk of the
multi-function switch is depressed to the momentary
Wash position for more than about one-half second
while the wiper system is not operating, the instru-
ment cluster sends an electronic washer switch mes-
sage to the FCM, then the FCM the directs battery
current to the washer pump/motor unit and energizes
the wiper on/off relay. This will cause the washer
pump/motor unit to be energized and operate the
wiper motor in a continuous low speed mode for as
long as the Wash switch is held closed up to about
thirty seconds. When the control knob is released,
the FCM de-energizes the washer pump/motor unit,
but allows the wiper motor to operate for several
additional wipe cycles before it de-energizes the
wiper on/off relay and parks the wiper blades near
the base of the windshield.
If the control knob is held depressed for more than
about thirty seconds, the FCM will suspend washer
pump/motor operation until the knob is released for
about two seconds, then cycled back to the Wash
position; however, the wipers will continue to operate
for as long as the Wash switch is held closed. The
FCM monitors the changing state of the wiper motor
park switch through a hard wired wiper park switch
sense circuit input. This input allows the FCM to
count the number of wipe cycles that occur after the
Wash switch is released, and to determine the proper
DRWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 5
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)

interval at which to de-energize the wiper on/off
relay to complete the wipe-after-wash mode cycle.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WIPER &
WASHER SYSTEM
If the wiper motor operates, but the wipers do not
move on the windshield, replace the faulty wiper
module. If the washer pump/motor operates, but no
washer fluid is dispensed on the glass; or, if the wip-
ers operate, but chatter, lift, or do not clear the glass,
clean and inspect the wiper and washer system com-
ponents as required. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
WIPERS/WASHERS - CLEANING) and (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS - INSPECTION).
For diagnosis and testing of the multi-function
switch (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHT-
ING - EXTERIOR/MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). Refer to the appropri-
ate wiring information. The wiring information
includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and connector
repair procedures, details of wire harness routing
and retention, connector pin-out information and
location views for the various wire harness connec-
tors, splices and grounds.
The hard wired circuits and components of the
wiper and washer system may be diagnosed and
tested using conventional diagnostic tools and proce-
dures. However, conventional diagnostic methods
may not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the
instrument cluster, the Front Control Module (FCM),
or the electronic message inputs to or outputs from
the instrument cluster and the FCM that control the
various wiper and washer system operating modes.
The most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to
diagnose the instrument cluster, the FCM, or the
electronic message inputs and outputs related to the
various wiper and washer system operating modes
requires the use of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS,
DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, AIRBAG, SEAT BELT
TENSIONER, IMPACT SENSOR, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGA-
TIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES
FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
CLEANING - WIPER & WASHER SYSTEM
WIPER SYSTEM
The squeegees of wiper blades exposed to the ele-
ments for a long time tend to lose their wiping effec-
tiveness. Periodic cleaning of the squeegees is
suggested to remove any deposits of salt or road film.
The wiper blades, arms, and windshield glass should
only be cleaned using a sponge or soft cloth and
windshield washer fluid, a mild detergent, or a non-
abrasive cleaner. If the wiper blades continue to
leave streaks, smears, hazing, or beading on the
glass after thorough cleaning of the squeegees and
the glass, the entire wiper blade assembly must be
replaced.
CAUTION: Protect the rubber squeegees of the
wiper blades from any petroleum-based cleaners,
solvents, or contaminants. These products can rap-
idly deteriorate the rubber squeegees.
WASHER SYSTEM
If the washer system is contaminated with foreign
material, drain the washer reservoir by removing the
washer pump/motor from the reservoir. Clean foreign
material from the inside of the washer pump/motor
inlet filter screen and the washer reservoir using
clean washer fluid, a mild detergent, or a non-abra-
sive cleaner. Flush foreign material from the washer
system plumbing by first disconnecting the washer
hoses from the washer nozzles, then running the
washer pump/motor to run clean washer fluid or
water through the system. Plugged or restricted
washer nozzles should be carefully back-flushed
using compressed air. If the washer nozzle obstruc-
tion cannot be cleared, replace the washer nozzle.
CAUTION: Never introduce petroleum-based clean-
ers, solvents, or contaminants into the washer sys-
tem. These products can rapidly deteriorate the
rubber seals and hoses of the washer system, as
well as the rubber squeegees of the wiper blades.
CAUTION: Never use compressed air to flush the
washer system plumbing. Compressed air pres-
sures are too great for the washer system plumbing
components and will result in further system dam-
age. Never use sharp instruments to clear a
plugged washer nozzle or damage to the nozzle ori-
fice and improper nozzle spray patterns will result.
8R - 6 WIPERS/WASHERSDR
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)

washer system plumbing (Fig. 3). The check valve is
integral to the washer nozzle plumbing wye fitting
located in the cowl plenum area beneath the cowl
plenum cover/grille panel near the base of the wind-
shield. The check valve consists of a molded plastic
body with a raised arrowhead molded into its center
section that indicates the direction of the flow
through the valve, and three barbed hose nipples
formed in a wye configuration on the outside circum-
ference of the center section of the valve body. The
check valve cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if
faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.
OPERATION
The check valve provides more than one function
in this application. It serves as a wye connector fit-
ting between the engine compartment and washer
nozzle sections of the washer supply hose. It prevents
washer fluid from draining out of the washer supply
hoses back to the washer reservoir. This drain-back
would result in a lengthy delay from when the
washer switch is actuated until washer fluid was dis-
pensed through the washer nozzles, because the
washer pump would have to refill the washer plumb-
ing from the reservoir to the nozzles. Such a drain-
back condition could also result in water, dirt, or
other outside contaminants being siphoned into the
washer system through the washer nozzle orifice.
This water could subsequently freeze and plug the
nozzle, while other contaminants could interfere with
proper nozzle operation and cause improper nozzle
spray patterns. In addition, the check valve prevents
washer fluid from siphoning through the washer noz-
zles after the washer system is turned Off.When the washer pump pressurizes and pumps
washer fluid from the reservoir through the washer
plumbing, the fluid pressure unseats a diaphragm
from over a sump well within the valve by overriding
the spring pressure applied to it by a piston (Fig. 4).
With the diaphragm unseated, washer fluid is
allowed to flow toward the two washer nozzles. When
the washer pump stops operating, the spring pres-
sure on the piston seats the diaphragm over the
sump well in the valve and fluid flow in either direc-
tion within the washer plumbing is prevented. The
check valve cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if
faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.REMOVAL
(1) Remove both wiper arms from the wiper pivots.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS/
WIPER ARM - REMOVAL).
(2) Unlatch and open the hood.
(3) Remove the cowl plenum cover/grille panel
from over the cowl plenum. (Refer to 23 - BODY/EX-
TERIOR/COWL GRILLE - REMOVAL).
(4) From the underside of the cowl plenum cover/
grille panel, disconnect the cowl plenum and washer
nozzle hoses from the three barbed nipples of the
check valve (Fig. 5).
(5) Remove the check valve from the underside of
the cowl plenum cover/grille panel.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the check valve to the underside of the
cowl plenum cover/grille panel (Fig. 5). Be certain
that the flow direction arrow molded into the check
valve body is oriented towards the washer nozzles.
Fig. 3 Check Valve
1 - INLET NIPPLE
2 - CHECK VALVE
3 - OUTLET NIPPLE (2)
4 - FLOW DIRECTION ARROW
Fig. 4 Check Valve
1 - SPRING
2 - PISTON
3 - DIAPHRAGM
4 - TO WASHER NOZZLE
5 - FROM WASHER PUMP
8R - 8 WIPERS/WASHERSDR
CHECK VALVE (Continued)