2002 DODGE RAM airbag disable

circumstances necessitate that a child, or an adult
with certain medical conditions be placed in the front
passenger seating position. Refer to the owner's man-
ual in the vehicle glove box for specific recommenda-
tions concerning the specific circumstances where the
passenger airbag on/off switch should be used to dis-
able the passenger airbag.
Deployment of the airbags depends upon the angle
and severity of the impact. The airbag system is
designed to deploy upon a frontal impact within a
thirty degree angle from either side of the vehicle
center line. Deployment is not based upon vehicle
speed; rather, deployment is based upon the rate of
deceleration as measured by the forces of gravity (G
force) upon the airbag system impact sensor, which is
integral to the ACM. When a frontal impact is severe
enough, the microprocessor in the ACM signals the
inflator units of both airbag modules to deploy the
airbags. During a frontal vehicle impact, the knee
blockers work in concert with properly fastened and
adjusted seat belts to restrain both the driver and
the front seat passenger in the proper position for an
airbag deployment. The knee blockers also absorb
and distribute the crash energy from the driver and
the front seat passenger to the structure of the
instrument panel.
Typically, the driver and front seat passenger recall
more about the events preceding and following a col-
lision than they have of the airbag deployment itself.
This is because the airbag deployment and deflation
occur so rapidly. In a typical 48 kilometer-per-hour
(30 mile-per-hour) barrier impact, from the moment
of impact until both airbags are fully inflated takes
about 40 milliseconds. Within one to two seconds
from the moment of impact, both airbags are almost
entirely deflated. The times cited for these events are
approximations, which apply only to a barrier impact
at the given speed. Actual times will vary somewhat,
depending upon the vehicle speed, impact angle,
severity of the impact, and the type of collision.
When the ACM monitors a problem in any of the
airbag system circuits or components, it stores a
fault code or Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) in its
memory circuit and sends an electronic message to
the EMIC to turn on the airbag indicator. Proper
testing of the airbag system components, the
Chrysler Collision Detection (CCD) data bus, the
data bus message inputs to and outputs from the
EMIC or the ACM, as well as the retrieval or erasure
of a DTC from the ACM requires the use of a
DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnos-
tic information.
See the owner's manual in the vehicle glove box for
more information on the features, use and operation
of all of the factory-installed passenger restraints,
including the airbag system.WARNING
WARNING: THE AIRBAG SYSTEM IS A SENSITIVE,
COMPLEX ELECTROMECHANICAL UNIT. BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO DIAGNOSE OR SERVICE ANY AIR-
BAG SYSTEM OR RELATED STEERING WHEEL,
STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENTS YOU MUST FIRST DISCONNECT
AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND)
CABLE. THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE FUR-
THER SYSTEM SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE
TO DO THIS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
WARNING: THE DRIVER AIRBAG INFLATOR UNIT
CONTAINS SODIUM AZIDE AND POTASSIUM
NITRATE. THESE MATERIALS ARE POISONOUS
AND EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE. CONTACT WITH
ACID, WATER, OR HEAVY METALS MAY PRODUCE
HARMFUL AND IRRITATING GASES (SODIUM
HYDROXIDE IS FORMED IN THE PRESENCE OF
MOISTURE) OR COMBUSTIBLE COMPOUNDS. THE
PASSENGER AIRBAG UNIT CONTAINS ARGON GAS
PRESSURIZED TO OVER 2500 PSI. DO NOT
ATTEMPT TO DISMANTLE AN AIRBAG UNIT OR
TAMPER WITH ITS INFLATOR. DO NOT PUNCTURE,
INCINERATE, OR BRING INTO CONTACT WITH
ELECTRICITY. DO NOT STORE AT TEMPERATURES
EXCEEDING 93É C (200É F).
WARNING: REPLACE AIRBAG SYSTEM COMPO-
NENTS ONLY WITH PARTS SPECIFIED IN THE
DAIMLERCHRYSLER MOPAR PARTS CATALOG.
SUBSTITUTE PARTS MAY APPEAR INTERCHANGE-
ABLE, BUT INTERNAL DIFFERENCES MAY RESULT
IN INFERIOR OCCUPANT PROTECTION.
WARNING: THE FASTENERS, SCREWS, AND
BOLTS ORIGINALLY USED FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM COMPONENTS HAVE SPECIAL COATINGS
AND ARE SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR THE AIR-
BAG SYSTEM. THEY MUST NEVER BE REPLACED
WITH ANY SUBSTITUTES. ANY TIME A NEW FAS-
TENER IS NEEDED, REPLACE IT WITH THE COR-
RECT FASTENERS PROVIDED IN THE SERVICE
PACKAGE OR SPECIFIED IN THE
DAIMLERCHRYSLER MOPAR PARTS CATALOG.
BR/BERESTRAINTS 8O - 3
RESTRAINTS (Continued)

WARNING: WHEN A STEERING COLUMN HAS AN
AIRBAG UNIT ATTACHED, NEVER PLACE THE COL-
UMN ON THE FLOOR OR ANY OTHER SURFACE
WITH THE STEERING WHEEL OR AIRBAG UNIT
FACE DOWN.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - AIRBAG SYSTEM
Proper diagnosis and testing of the airbag system
components, the Chrysler Collision Detection (CCD)
data bus, the data bus message inputs to and out-
puts from the ElectroMechanical Instrument Cluster
(EMIC) or the Airbag Control Module (ACM), as well
as the retrieval or erasure of a Diagnostic Trouble
Code (DTC) from the ACM requires the use of a
DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnos-
tic information.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - HANDLING
NON-DEPLOYED AIRBAGS
At no time should any source of electricity be per-
mitted near the inflator on the back of a non-de-
ployed airbag. When carrying a non-deployed airbag,
the trim cover or airbag cushion side of the unit
should be pointed away from the body to minimize
injury in the event of an accidental deployment. If
the airbag unit is placed on a bench or any other sur-
face, the trim cover or airbag cushion side of the unit
should be face up to minimize movement in the event
of an accidental deployment. In addition, the airbag
system should be disarmed whenever any steering
wheel, steering column, or instrument panel compo-
nents require diagnosis or service. Failure to observe
this warning could result in accidental airbag deploy-
ment and possible personal injury.
All damaged, faulty, or non-deployed airbags which
are replaced on vehicles are to handled and disposed
of properly. If an airbag unit is faulty or damagedand non-deployed, refer to the Hazardous Substance
Control System for proper disposal. Dispose of all
non-deployed and deployed airbags in a manner con-
sistent with state, provincial, local and federal regu-
lations.
AIRBAG STORAGE
An airbag must be stored in its original, special
container until it is used for service. Also, it must be
stored in a clean, dry environment; away from
sources of extreme heat, sparks, and high electrical
energy. Always place or store any airbag on a surface
with its trim cover or airbag cushion side facing up,
to minimize movement in case of an accidental
deployment.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - SERVICE AFTER AN
AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
Any vehicle which is to be returned to use follow-
ing an airbag deployment, must have both airbags,
the driver airbag trim cover, the clockspring, and the
steering column assembly replaced. These compo-
nents are not intended for reuse and will be damaged
or weakened as a result of an airbag deployment,
which may or may not be obvious during a visual
inspection. Other vehicle components should be
closely inspected, but are to be replaced only as
required by the extent of the visible damage
incurred.
CLEANUP PROCEDURE
Following an airbag deployment, the vehicle inte-
rior will contain a powdery residue. This residue con-
sists primarily of harmless particulate by-products of
the small pyrotechnic charge used to initiate the pro-
pellant used to deploy the airbags. However, this res-
idue may also contain traces of sodium hydroxide
powder, a chemical by-product of the propellant
material that is used to generate the nitrogen gas
that inflates the airbag. Since sodium hydroxide pow-
der can irritate the skin, eyes, nose, or throat, be
sure to wear safety glasses, rubber gloves, and a
long-sleeved shirt during cleanup (Fig. 2).
WARNING: IF YOU EXPERIENCE SKIN IRRITATION
DURING CLEANUP, RUN COOL WATER OVER THE
AFFECTED AREA. ALSO, IF YOU EXPERIENCE
IRRITATION OF THE NOSE OR THROAT, EXIT THE
VEHICLE FOR FRESH AIR UNTIL THE IRRITATION
CEASES. IF IRRITATION CONTINUES, SEE A PHYSI-
CIAN.
Begin the cleanup by removing both airbags from
the vehicle. Refer to the appropriate service removal
procedures.
8O - 4 RESTRAINTSBR/BE
RESTRAINTS (Continued)

CAUTION: All damaged, faulty, or non-deployed air-
bags which are replaced on vehicles are to handled
and disposed of properly. If an airbag unit is faulty
or damaged and non-deployed, refer to the Hazard-
ous Substance Control System for proper disposal.
Dispose of all non-deployed and deployed airbags
in a manner consistent with state, provincial, local
and federal regulations.
Next, use a vacuum cleaner to remove any residual
powder from the vehicle interior. Clean from outside
the vehicle and work your way inside, so that you
avoid kneeling or sitting on a non-cleaned area. Be
certain to vacuum the heater and air conditioning
outlets as well (Fig. 3). Run the heater and air con-
ditioner blower on the lowest speed setting and vac-
uum any powder expelled from the outlets. You may
need to vacuum the interior of the vehicle a second
time to recover all of the powder.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - VERIFICATION TEST
The following procedure should be performed using
a DRBIIItscan tool to verify proper airbag system
operation following the service or replacement of any
airbag system component.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
(1) During the following test, the battery negative
cable remains disconnected and isolated, as it was
during the airbag component removal and installa-
tion procedures.
(2) Be certain that the DRBIIItscan tool contains
the latest version of the proper DRBIIItsoftware.
Connect the DRBIIItto the 16-way Data Link Con-
nector (DLC). The DLC is located on the driver side
lower edge of the instrument panel, outboard of the
steering column (Fig. 4).
(3) Turn the ignition switch to the On position and
exit the vehicle with the DRBIIIt.
(4) Check to be certain that nobody is in the vehi-
cle, then reconnect the battery negative cable.
(5) Using the DRBIIIt, read and record the active
(current) Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) data.
(6) Next, use the DRBIIItto read and record any
stored (historical) DTC data.
(7) If any DTC is found in Step 5 or Step 6, refer
to the appropriate diagnostic information.
(8) Use the DRBIIItto erase the stored DTC data.
If any problems remain, the stored DTC data will not
erase. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic informa-
tion to diagnose any stored DTC that will not erase.
If the stored DTC information is successfully erased,
go to Step 9.
(9) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position for
about fifteen seconds, and then back to the On posi-
tion. Observe the airbag indicator in the instrument
cluster. It should light for six to eight seconds, and
then go out. This indicates that the airbag system is
functioning normally and that the repairs are com-
plete. If the airbag indicator fails to light, or lights
and stays on, there is still an active airbag system
Fig. 2 Wear Safety Glasses and Rubber Gloves -
Typical
Fig. 3 Vacuum Heater and A/C Outlets - Typical
BR/BERESTRAINTS 8O - 5
RESTRAINTS (Continued)

Two sensors are contained within the ACM, an
electronic impact sensor and a safing sensor. The
electronic impact sensor is an accelerometer that
senses the rate of vehicle deceleration, which pro-
vides verification of the direction and severity of an
impact. A pre-programmed decision algorithm in the
ACM microprocessor determines when the decelera-
tion rate as signaled by the impact sensor indicates
an impact that is severe enough to require airbag
system protection. When the programmed conditions
are met, the ACM sends an electrical signal to deploy
the airbags. The safing sensor is an electromechani-
cal sensor within the ACM that is connected in series
between the ACM microprocessor airbag deployment
circuit and the airbags. The safing sensor is a nor-
mally open switch that is used to verify or confirm
the need for an airbag deployment by detecting
impact energy of a lesser magnitude than that of the
electronic impact sensor, and must be closed in order
for the airbags to deploy. The impact sensor and saf-
ing sensor are calibrated for the specific vehicle, and
are only serviced as a unit with the ACM.
REMOVAL
WARNING: DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM
BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL,
STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCON-
NECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE
(GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR
THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE
THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN
ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSI-
BLE PERSONAL INJURY.
WARNING: THE AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE CON-
TAINS THE IMPACT SENSOR, WHICH ENABLES
THE SYSTEM TO DEPLOY THE AIRBAGS. NEVER
STRIKE OR KICK THE AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE,
AS IT CAN DAMAGE THE IMPACT SENSOR OR
AFFECT ITS CALIBRATION. IF AN AIRBAG CON-
TROL MODULE IS ACCIDENTALLY DROPPED DUR-
ING SERVICE, THE MODULE MUST BE SCRAPPED
AND REPLACED WITH A NEW UNIT. FAILURE TO
OBSERVE THIS WARNING COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL, INCOMPLETE, OR IMPROPER AIRBAG
DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE OCCUPANT INJU-
RIES.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. If either of the airbags has not been deployed,wait two minutes for the system capacitor to dis-
charge before further service.
(2) If the vehicle is equipped with a manual trans-
mission, remove the center floor console from the
floor panel transmission tunnel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/
INTERIOR/CENTER CONSOLE - REMOVAL).
(3) If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic
transmission, remove the two screws that secure the
trim cover to the Airbag Control Module (ACM)
mounting bracket on the floor panel transmission
tunnel and remove the trim cover (Fig. 5).
(4) Loosen the screw that secures each side of the
instrument panel center support bracket to the ACM
mounting bracket (Fig. 6). Do not remove these
screws.
(5) Remove the two nuts that secure the instru-
ment panel center support bracket to the studs on
the lower instrument panel structural support.
(6) Disengage the retainer on the instrument
panel wire harness take out to the ACM from the
retainer hole in the left side of the instrument panel
center support bracket.
(7) Pull the top of the instrument panel center
support bracket rearward and down from the instru-
ment panel studs. Fold it down over the top of the
ACM until it is laying flat on the floor panel trans-
mission tunnel.
(8) Disconnect the instrument panel wire harness
connector for the ACM from the ACM connector
receptacle. To disconnect this connector:
(a) Slide the red Connector Position Assurance
(CPA) lock on the top of the connector toward the
side of the vehicle.
Fig. 5 Airbag Control Module Trim Cover Remove/
Install
1 - INSTRUMENT PANEL SUPPORT BRACKET
2 - ACM MOUNTING BRACKET
3 - TRIM COVER
4 - SCREW
BR/BERESTRAINTS 8O - 7
AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

(b) Depress the connector latch tab and pull the
connector straight away from the ACM connector
receptacle.
NOTE: Always remove and replace the ACM and its
mounting bracket as a unit. Replacement modules
include a replacement mounting bracket. Do not
transfer the ACM to another mounting bracket.
(9) Remove the four screws that secure the ACM
mounting bracket to the floor panel transmission
tunnel.
(10) Remove the ACM, the mounting bracket, and
the instrument panel center support bracket from the
floor panel transmission tunnel as a unit.
INSTALLATION
WARNING: DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM
BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL,
STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCON-
NECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE
(GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR
THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS ORSERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE
THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN
ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSI-
BLE PERSONAL INJURY.
WARNING: THE AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE CON-
TAINS THE IMPACT SENSOR, WHICH ENABLES
THE SYSTEM TO DEPLOY THE AIRBAGS. NEVER
STRIKE OR KICK THE AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE,
AS IT CAN DAMAGE THE IMPACT SENSOR OR
AFFECT ITS CALIBRATION. IF AN AIRBAG CON-
TROL MODULE IS ACCIDENTALLY DROPPED DUR-
ING SERVICE, THE MODULE MUST BE SCRAPPED
AND REPLACED WITH A NEW UNIT. FAILURE TO
OBSERVE THIS WARNING COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL, INCOMPLETE, OR IMPROPER AIRBAG
DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE OCCUPANT INJU-
RIES.
(1) Carefully position the Airbag Control Module
(ACM), the mounting bracket, and the instrument
panel center support bracket onto the floor panel
transmission tunnel as a unit (Fig. 6). When the
ACM is correctly positioned, the arrow on the ACM
label will be pointed forward in the vehicle.
(2) Install and tighten the four screws that secure
the ACM mounting bracket to the floor panel trans-
mission tunnel. Tighten the screws to 14 N´m (125
in. lbs.).
(3) With the instrument panel center support
bracket still folded down flat on the floor panel trans-
mission tunnel, reconnect the instrument panel wire
harness connector for the ACM to the ACM connector
receptacle. Be certain that the connector latch and
the red Connector Position Assurance (CPA) lock are
fully engaged.
(4) Fold the top of the instrument panel center
support bracket up over the top of the ACM and for-
ward over the studs on the lower instrument panel
structural support.
(5) Install and tighten the nuts that secure the
instrument panel center support bracket to the studs
on the lower instrument panel structural support.
Tighten the nuts to 14 N´m (125 in. lbs.).
(6) Engage the retainer on the instrument panel
wire harness take out for the ACM in the retainer
hole on the left side of the instrument panel center
support bracket.
(7) Tighten the screws that secure each side of the
instrument panel center support bracket to the ACM
mounting bracket. Tighten the screws 14 N´m (125
in. lbs.).
(8) If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic
transmission, position the ACM trim cover to the
ACM mounting bracket on the floor panel transmis-
sion tunnel (Fig. 5).
Fig. 6 Airbag Control Module Remove/Install
1 - INSTRUMENT PANEL
2 - SUPPORT BRACKET
3 - SCREW (2)
4 - FLOOR PANEL
5 - SCREW (4)
6 - MOUNTING BRACKET
7 - CONNECTOR
8 - ACM
9 - RETAINER
10 - NUT
8O - 8 RESTRAINTSBR/BE
AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

may be damaged. Service replacement clocksprings
are shipped pre-centered and with the auto-locking
tabs engaged. A piece of tape covers the auto-locking
tabs to discourage tampering. These auto-locking
tabs should not be disengaged until the clockspring
has been installed on the steering column. If this
shipping tape is removed or damaged, or if the auto-
locking tabs are disengaged before the clockspring is
installed on a steering column, the clockspring cen-
tering procedure must be performed. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - CLOCKSPRING CEN-
TERING).
STANDARD PROCEDURE - CLOCKSPRING
CENTERING
The clockspring is designed to wind and unwind
when the steering wheel is rotated, but is only
designed to rotate the same number of turns (about
five complete rotations) as the steering wheel can be
turned from stop to stop. Centering the clockspring
indexes the clockspring tape to other steering compo-
nents so that it can operate within its designed
travel limits. The rotor of a centered clockspring can
be rotated two and one-half turns in either direction
from the centered position, without damaging the
clockspring tape.
However, if the clockspring is removed for service
or if the steering column is disconnected from the
steering gear, the clockspring tape can change posi-
tion relative to the other steering components. The
clockspring must then be re-centered following com-
pletion of such service or the clockspring tape may be
damaged. Service replacement clocksprings are
shipped pre-centered and with the auto-locking tabs
engaged (raised). These auto-locking tabs should not
be disengaged until the clockspring has been
installed on the steering column. If the auto-locking
tabs are disengaged before the clockspring is
installed on a steering column, the clockspring cen-
tering procedure must be performed.
WARNING: DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM
BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL,
STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCON-
NECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE
(GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR
THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE
THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN
ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSI-
BLE PERSONAL INJURY.NOTE: Before starting this procedure, be certain to
turn the steering wheel until the front wheels are in
the straight-ahead position.
(1) Place the front wheels in the straight-ahead
position.
(2) Remove the clockspring from the steering col-
umn. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
CLOCKSPRING - REMOVAL).
(3) Depress the two plastic clockspring auto-lock-
ing tabs (Fig. 8).
(4) Keeping the auto-locking tabs depressed, rotate
the clockspring rotor clockwise to the end of its
travel.Do not apply excessive torque.
(5) From the end of the clockwise travel, rotate the
rotor about two and one-half turns counterclockwise,
then release the auto-locking tabs. The clockspring
pigtail wire for the horn switch should end up at the
top, and the pigtail wires for the airbag, optional
speed control switches, and optional remote radio
switches at the bottom. The clockspring is now cen-
tered.
(6) The front wheels should still be in the straight-
ahead position. Reinstall the clockspring onto the
steering column. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RE-
STRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING - INSTALLATION).
Fig. 8 Clockspring Auto-Locking Tabs
1 - AIRBAG MODULE WIRE
2 - SPEED CONTROL WIRING
3 - HORN WIRE
4 - CLOCKSPRING ASSEMBLY
5 - AUTO-LOCKING TABS
BR/BERESTRAINTS 8O - 11
CLOCKSPRING (Continued)

REMOVAL
The clockspring cannot be repaired. It must be
replaced if faulty or damaged, or if the driver airbag
has been deployed.
WARNING: DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM
BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL,
STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCON-
NECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE
(GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR
THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE
THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN
ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSI-
BLE PERSONAL INJURY.
NOTE: Before starting this procedure, be certain to
turn the steering wheel until the front wheels are in
the straight-ahead position.
(1) Place the front wheels in the straight-ahead
position.
(2) Remove the driver airbag from the steering
wheel. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
DRIVER AIRBAG - REMOVAL).
(3) If the vehicle is so equipped, disconnect the
clockspring pigtail wire connectors from the speed
control switches and the remote radio switches
located within the hub cavity of the steering wheel.
(4) Remove the nut that secures the steering wheel
armature to the steering column upper shaft, which
is located within the hub cavity of the steering wheel.
(5) Pull the steering wheel off of the steering col-
umn upper shaft spline using a steering wheel puller
(Special Tool C-3428-B).
(6) Remove the steering column opening cover
from the instrument panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/IN-
STRUMENT PANEL/STEERING COLUMN OPEN-
ING COVER - REMOVAL).
(7) If the vehicle is so equipped, unscrew the lever
from the tilt steering column adjuster mechanism
located on the left side of the column just below the
multi-function switch control stalk. Turn the lever
counterclockwise to unscrew it from the adjuster.
(8) From below the steering column, remove the
two outboard screws that secure the upper shroud to
the lower outer shroud (Fig. 9).
(9) Press carefully inward on each side of the outer
shrouds to release the snap features and remove the
upper outer shroud from the lower outer shroud.
(10) From below the steering column, remove the
one center screw that secures the lower outer shroud
to the steering column housing.(11) Remove the lower outer shroud from the
steering column.
(12) From below the steering column, remove the
two screws that secure the lower inner shroud to the
steering column housing and the upper inner shroud.
(13) Press carefully inward on the gearshift lever
side of the inner shrouds to release the snap features
and remove the lower inner shroud from the steering
column.
(14) Disconnect the instrument panel wire harness
connector for the clockspring from the lower clock-
spring connector receptacle.
(15) Disconnect the lower clockspring pigtail wire
connector from the instrument panel wire harness,
located on the instrument panel lower reinforcement
below the steering column.
(16) Carefully disengage the plastic latches of the
clockspring assembly from the steering column lock
housing and remove the clockspring from the column.
The clockspring cannot be repaired. It must be
replaced if faulty or damaged, or if the driver airbag
has been deployed.
(17) If the removed clockspring is to be reused,
secure the clockspring rotor to the clockspring case to
maintain clockspring centering until it is reinstalled
on the steering column. If clockspring centering is
Fig. 9 Steering Column Shrouds Remove/Install -
Typical
1 - NUT
2 - TILT LEVER
3 - UPPER SHROUD
4 - LOWER SHROUD
5 - SCREWS
6 - CLOCK SPRING
7 - STEERING WHEEL
8O - 12 RESTRAINTSBR/BE
CLOCKSPRING (Continued)

not maintained, the clockspring must be centered
again before it is reinstalled. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING - STANDARD
PROCEDURE - CLOCKSPRING CENTERING).
INSTALLATION
The clockspring cannot be repaired. It must be
replaced if faulty or damaged, or if the driver airbag
has been deployed.
If the clockspring is not properly centered in rela-
tion to the steering wheel, steering shaft and steer-
ing gear, it may be damaged. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - CLOCKSPRING CEN-
TERING). Service replacement clocksprings are
shipped pre-centered and with a piece of tape cover-
ing the engaged clockspring auto-locking tabs. This
tape should not be removed until the clockspring has
been installed on the steering column. If the tape is
removed before the clockspring is installed on a
steering column, the clockspring centering procedure
must be performed.
WARNING: DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM
BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL,
STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCON-
NECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE
(GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR
THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE
THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN
ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSI-
BLE PERSONAL INJURY.
NOTE: Before starting this procedure, be certain
that the front wheels are still in the straight-ahead
position.
(1) Carefully slide the centered clockspring down
over the steering column upper shaft until the clock-
spring latches engage the steering column lock hous-
ing (Fig. 9).
(2) Reconnect the lower clockspring pigtail wire
connector to the instrument panel wire harness con-
nector located near the instrument panel lower rein-
forcement, below the steering column. Be certain that
the pigtail wire locator clips are properly seated on
the outside of the wiring trough and that the connec-
tor latches are fully engaged.
(3) Reconnect the instrument panel wire harness
connector for the clockspring to the lower clockspring
connector receptacle.(4) Position the lower inner shroud onto the steer-
ing column. Be certain to insert the gearshift lever
hider strip into the channel located on the inside sur-
face of the shroud.
(5) Align the locking tabs on the gearshift lever
side of the upper inner shroud with the receptacles
on the lower inner shroud and apply hand pressure
to snap them together.
(6) From below the steering column, install and
tighten the two screws that secure the lower inner
shroud to the steering column housing and the upper
inner shroud. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (18 in.
lbs.).
(7) Position the lower outer shroud onto the steer-
ing column. Be certain that the lower clockspring
pigtail wire is routed inside the shrouds.
(8) From below the steering column, install and
tighten the one center screw that secures the lower
outer shroud to the steering column housing. Tighten
the screw to 2 N´m (18 in. lbs.).
(9) Align the locking tabs on the upper outer
shroud with the receptacles on the lower outer
shroud and apply hand pressure to snap them
together.
(10) From below the steering column, install and
tighten the two outboard screws that secure the
lower outer shroud to the upper outer shroud.
Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (18 in. lbs.).
(11) If the vehicle is so equipped, reinstall the
lever into the tilt steering column adjuster on the left
side of the column. Turn the lever clockwise to screw
it into the adjuster.
(12) Reinstall the steering column opening cover
onto the instrument panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/IN-
STRUMENT PANEL/STEERING COLUMN OPEN-
ING COVER - INSTALLATION).
(13) Reinstall the steering wheel onto the steering
column upper shaft. Be certain to index the flats on
the hub of the steering wheel with the formations on
the inside of the clockspring hub. Pull the upper
clockspring pigtail wires through the upper and
lower holes between the steering wheel back trim
cover and the steering wheel armature.
(14) Install and tighten the steering wheel mount-
ing nut. Tighten the nut to 61 N´m (45 ft. lbs.). Be
certain not to pinch the pigtail wires between the
steering wheel and the nut.
(15) If the vehicle is so equipped, reconnect the
upper clockspring pigtail wire connectors to the
speed control switches and/or the remote radio
switches. Be certain that the upper clockspring pig-
tail wires are routed between the steering wheel back
trim cover and the steering wheel armature.
(16) Reinstall the driver airbag onto the steering
wheel. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
DRIVER AIRBAG - INSTALLATION).
BR/BERESTRAINTS 8O - 13
CLOCKSPRING (Continued)