Models W/Acustar Steering Column

Before attempting to diagnose, remove or install any airbag system components, unless otherwise noted, you must first disconnect and isolate battery ground cable. Failure to do so could result in accidental deployment and possible personal injury.
Two different types of clocksprings are used, the Chrysler steering column (1989 & 1990) type which uses a setscrew and tether strap, and the Acustar column (1990 & 1991) which uses an automatic lock, that engages when the steering wheel is removed. Acustar type automatic locking clocksprings can be identified by the lack of a setscrew and tether strap. This procedure applies to Acustar type steering columns only, for clockspring replacement on Chrysler type steering columns refer to, CLOCKSPRING REPLACEMENT/MODELS WITH CHRYSLER STEERING COLUMNS.

REMOVAL

1. Ensure front wheels are in straight ahead position.
2. Disconnect and isolate battery ground cable, wait at least 2 minutes before working on vehicle.

Fig. 91 Removing Clockspring From Steering Column. W/Acustar Steering Column:

3. Remove airbag module.
4. Remove speed control switch and connector, if equipped.
5. Remove steering wheel and vibration dampener, if equipped.
6. Disconnect horn terminals.
7. Remove upper and lower steering column shrouds, then disconnect the 2-way connector between clockspring and instrument panel wiring harness at base of steering column.

Fig. 92 Auto-Locking Type Clockspring, (Acustar Steering Column):

8. Remove clockspring by lifting locating tabs as necessary.

CENTERING

1. Place front wheels in straight ahead position.
2. Depress two plastic locking pins or spread apart two metal locking tabs in center of clockspring.
3. At the same time, rotate clockspring rotor clockwise to the end of its travel.
4. From this position, rotate clockspring rotor counterclockwise 2 1/2 turns. The horn wire should be at the top and the squib wire at the bottom. While turning the rotor, visually inspect flat cable for bends or kinks. If clockspring is bent or kinked, replace clockspring assembly.

INSTALLATION

1. Snap clockspring onto steering column. Ensure clockspring is centered, if not follow clockspring centering procedure.
2. Connect clockspring assembly to instrument panel wiring harness, ensure wiring locator clips are properly seated on outside of wiring trough and locking tabs are engaged.
3. Install steering column shrouds, ensure wire is inside shroud.
4. Ensure front wheels are in straight ahead position. Install steering wheel and vibration dampner, if equipped. Torque to 45 lb-ft. Fit flats on hub of steering wheel with formations on inside of clockspring.
5. Pull horn lead through upper smaller hole and clockspring lead through bottom larger hole.
6. Connect horn lead wire, then airbag lead wire to airbag module. To assure complete connections, latching arms must be visible on top of connector housing.
7. Install airbag module, torque nuts to 80 to 100 lb-in.
8. Do not connect negative battery cable. Refer to Air Bag Systems/Testing and Inspection/Procedures for proper procedure.