Models W/Chrysler Steering Column

Before attempting to diagnose, remove or install any airbag system component, unless otherwise noted, you must first disarm the airbag system as outlined in MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES/AIRBAG DISARMING. 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, which engages when the steering wheel is removed. Acustar type automatic locking clocksprings can be identified by the lack of a setscrew and tether strap. The following procedure applies to the Chrysler type steering column only. For clockspring removal on an Acustar type steering column refer to Air Bag Systems/Clockspring Assembly/Spiral Cable/Service and Repair.

Fig. 89 Removing Clockspring From Steering Column. W/Steering Column:

REMOVAL

When the steering column is separated from the steering gear for any reason, the steering column must be locked to prevent damage to the airbag slip ring.
1. Disconnect and isolate battery ground cable, wait at least 2 minutes before proceeding.
2. Remove airbag module from steering wheel.
3. Remove clockspring setscrew from its resting place on steering wheel and place it in clockspring to ensure clockspring positioning, if equipped. Screw is on a tether which must not be removed.
4. Remove steering wheel retaining nut.
5. On Daytona and LeBaron models with automatic transmission, remove damper assembly.
6. On all models, with a suitable tool, remove steering wheel.
7. Disconnect two-way connector between clockspring and instrument panel wiring harness at base of column.
8. Loosen two mounting screws at clockspring assembly.
9. Remove connector at base of steering column and tape another piece of wire approximately 12 inches long to clockspring wire lead.
10. Pull wire up through column and untape two wires to remove clockspring, making sure to leave second piece of wire in column.

Fig. 90 Non-Auto-Locking Type Clockspring, (Chrysler Steering Column):

CENTERING

The following procedure must be used if the clockspring is not known to be properly positioned in order to prevent clockspring failure.
Two different types of clocksprings are used, one with a setscrew, the other with an automatic lock, which engages when the steering wheel is removed. Automatic locking clocksprings can be identified by the lack of a setscrew and tether strap.
1. Place front wheels in straight ahead position.
2. Rotate clockspring rotor counterclockwise to the end of its travel.
3. From this position, rotate clockspring rotor clockwise two full turns.
4. On models equipped with non-auto-locking type clockspring, continue to turn rotor clockwise until setscrew mounting boss is aligned with recessed flat on clockspring housing, Do not rotate more than 1/2 turn to align.

INSTALLATION

Obtain new clockspring assembly service kit containing clockspring assembly and lower two way connector. Ensure all parts are contained in kit.
1. Tape new clockspring wire lead to wire that was left in steering column.
2. Pull new clockspring wire lead down through column using wire in column.
3. Once clockspring lead is through column, untape two wires, and insert clockspring lead terminals into connector.
4. Install locking wedge and connect clockspring assembly to instrument panel wiring harness.
5. Mount clockspring assembly to turn signal switch using two screws, and torque to 10-20 lb-in. If clockspring is not properly positioned, follow procedure outlined under CENTERING prior to installing steering wheel.
6. Install steering wheel and vibration damper (if equipped), making sure to pull horn lead through upper smaller hole and clockspring lead through bottom larger hole.
7. Index flats on hub of steering wheel with formations on inside of clockspring.
8. Remove clockspring assembly locking screw and insert screw into steering wheel where it was stored, (if equipped), torque to 4 lb-in.
9. Connect horn lead wire and clockspring lead wire to airbag module.
10. Using a 10 mm thin wall socket, install airbag module and torque nuts to 80-100 lb-in.
11. Do not connect battery ground cable. Refer to Air Bag Systems/Testing and Inspection/Procedures for proper procedure.