Safety Belt Tensioner - Replacement

91bmw11

Group 72
Equipment and
Accessories


Bulletin Number
72 03 91 (3352)


Woodcliff Lake, NJ
October 1991
Product Engineering


SUBJECT: Safety Belt Tensioner

MODEL: 3-Series (E36)





Situation: The E36 is equipped with a mechanical safety belt tensioner which is designed to take up slack in the safety belt in the event of a frontal collision.


A frontal impact triggers the mechanical impact sensor, releasing the pre-tensioned spring, pulling the belt receptacle down approximately 55 mm. This tightens the lap and shoulder belts, if fastened.


IMPORTANT

Any safety belt tensioners that have been activated must be replaced; they cannot be reset. Any tensioners that have not been activated, and are being replaced for another reason (i.e. cosmetic damage) must be disarmed before disposal to prevent accidental injury to untrained personnel who may subsequently handle the part.





Procedure: Warning: Never handle the assembly in area A when removing, carrying or working on the unit as injury may occur if the unit is accidentally activated.





Mount the assembly in a bench vise as illustrated. The belt receptacle should be horizontal, with the vise clamping down on the mounting area.





Pull the safety cable out to it's stop, and hold in place with locking jaw pliers for the remainder of the procedure.





The belt receptacle should not be pointed at any one during deactivation.





Strike the housing in area sharply with a hammer to trigger the tensioner. The receptacle should move approximately 55 mm toward the base.


The assembly may now be disposed of.

Warranty
Status: Information only.