Air Bag Systems: Description and Operation

The Supplemental Driver Air Bag Restraint System is designed to provide increased accident protection for the driver IN ADDITION TO that provided by the driver three point safety belt system. Safety belt use is necessary to obtain the best occupant protection and to receive the full advantages of the supplemental air bag. FORD RECOMMENDS THE USE OF SAFETY BELT SYSTEMS FOR ALL VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.

The Supplemental Driver Air Bag Restraint System consists of two basic subsystems:
- The driver air bag.
- The electrical system; including impact sensors the backup power supply and electronic monitor assembly.

Electrical System
The air bag system is powered directly from the battery. The system can function with the ignition switch in any position, including OFF and LOCK. The system can also function when the driver's seat is unoccupied. The electrical system performs three main functions:
- Detects an impact.
- Switches electric power to the igniter.
- Monitors the system to determine readiness. The electrical system components include:
- Electronic diagnostic monitor.
- Air bag system readiness indicator.
- Wiring harness and contact assembly.
- Sensors.
- Igniter Assembly.
- Backup power supply.









Sensors
The sensor assembly is an electrical switch which reacts to impacts according to direction and force. It discriminates between impacts that require air bag inflation and impacts that do not require air bag inflation. When an impact occurs that requires air bag inflation, the sensor contacts close, completing the electrical circuit necessary for system operation.

Five sensors are mounted in the vehicle. Their locations are as follows:
- A dual sensor at the radiator support.
- At the RH fender apron.
- At the LH fender apron.
- At the cowl in the passenger compartment.

At least two sensors, one safing, one front, must be activated simultaneously to inflate the air bag.