Models W/Chrysler Steering Column

Warning: 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.

Warning: If replacing a deployed module, wear gloves and eye protection. There will be deposits on and around the airbag that could cause skin and eye irritation. If material does come into contact with the body, flush with plenty of cold water.

Note: The following procedure applies to the Chrysler type steering column only. To identify the steering column used SEE Steering Column ID.

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

Removal

Caution: 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

Caution: The following procedure must be used if the clockspring is not known to be properly positioned in order to prevent clockspring failure.

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. 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

Note: 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 in lb. 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 in lb.
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 in lb.
11. Do not connect battery ground cable. Refer to Air Bag Systems/Testing and Inspection/Procedures for proper procedure.