Wiring Harness Service Procedure

The wiring harness for this system is unique in that the sensor wiring and connectors are dedicated, i.e., are isolated from other circuits to avoid possible mis-pinning and loss of circuit terminals. All sensor and squib circuit terminals are gold plated, soldered in place, and installed in sealed connectors to insure years of reliability.

The repair procedures specified in this section are required when repairing airbag system circuits. If the repairs specified in this section cannot be performed due to environmental constraints, the entire wiring assembly must be replaced.

All terminals used in the repairs of airbag system circuitry are gold plated to prevent corrosion and voltage drop. You must not substitute any other terminal, and must use the correct part as specified in the parts book.

NOTE: THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTION BETWEEN THE CLOCKSPRING AND INSTRUMENT PANEL WIRE HARNESS, AT THE BASE OF THE STEERING COLUMN, MUST BE DISCONNECTED BEFORE ANY WIRE HARNESS REPAIR PROCEDURES ARE ATTEMPTED.

WARNING: BEFORE BEGINNING ANY AIRBAG SYSTEM INSTALLATION OR REMOVAL PROCEDURES, REMOVE AND ISOLATE THE NEGATIVE (-) BATTERY CABLE (GROUND) FROM THE VEHICLE BATTERY.

TYPICAL BLADE TERMINAL:

Removal and Installation of Terminals

First remove the terminal wedge lock. Insert a tool (i.e. screwdriver) at "A" (shown in the sketch) and gently pry the plastic locking finger down away from the terminal. Pull gently on the wire until the terminal is released.

To install the new terminal, push the terminal into its cavity until an audible "click" is heard. Pull the wire lightly but firmly to insure that the terminal is properly hooked. Reinstall the terminal wedge lock.

NOTE: THIS PROCEDURE APPLIES TO BOTH MALE AND FEMALE TERMINAL.