Clockspring Assembly / Spiral Cable: Service and Repair

CLOCKSPRING







Removal

NOTE:
- The air bag warning indicator illuminates when the restraints control module (RCM) fuse is removed and the ignition switch is ON. This is normal operation and does not indicate a supplemental restraint system (SRS) fault.
- The SRS must be fully operational and free of faults before releasing the vehicle to the customer.
- Repair is made by installing a new part only. If the new part does not correct the condition, install the original part and carry out the diagnostic procedure again.

1. Remove the driver air bag module.

2. CAUTION: Make sure the road wheels are in the straight-ahead position. Damage to the clockspring may occur.

Remove the steering wheel.

3. Release the 2 tabs and position the upper steering column shroud up.
4. Remove the 3 screws and lower steering column shroud.
5. Disconnect the clockspring electrical connector.
6. Remove the 2 clockspring screws and remove the clockspring.

Installation

All vehicles
1. Install the clockspring and 2 screws.
2. Connect the clockspring electrical connector.
3. Install the lower steering column shroud and 3 screws.
4. Attach the upper steering column shroud to the lower steering column shroud.

Vehicles installing a new clockspring
5. Install the steering wheel.
- After the steering wheel installation, remove the clockspring sealing key.







Vehicle repairs reusing the same clockspring.

6. WARNING: If the clockspring is not correctly centralized, it may fail prematurely. If in doubt, repeat the centralizing procedure. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of serious personal injury or death in a crash.

CAUTION: Make sure the road wheels are in the straight-ahead position. Damage to the clockspring may occur.

If the vehicle's clockspring has rotated out of center, follow these steps to center the clockspring.
1 Hold the clockspring outer housing stationary.

2 CAUTION: Overturning will destroy the clockspring. The internal ribbon wire acts as the stop and can be broken from its internal connection.

While turning the rotor counterclockwise, carefully feel for the ribbon wire to run out of length and for a slight resistance. Stop turning at this point.

3 Turn the clockspring clockwise (approximately 2.25 turns) until the clockspring rotor wiring and connector are in the 12 o'clock position. Clockspring is now centered.
- Do not allow the rotor to turn from this position.







7. CAUTION: If the vehicle is left unattended by the technician between centralizing the clockspring and installing the steering wheel, the centralizing procedure must be repeated. Damage to the clockspring may occur.

Install the steering wheel.

All vehicles
8. Install the driver air bag module.