Operation

OPERATION

The clockspring is a mechanical electrical circuit component that is used to provide continuous electrical continuity between the instrument panel wire harness and certain electrical components mounted on or in the rotating steering wheel and steering column. The rotating electrical components include the driver airbag, horn switch, and speed control switch, if the vehicle is so equipped. The clockspring is positioned and secured near the top of the steering column. The electrical connector on the back of the clockspring case connect the clockspring to the vehicle electrical system through two connectors from the instrument panel wire harness.

The turn signal cancel cam is keyed so as to move with the rotation of the steering column shaft and the steering wheel. The cancel cam is secured and also keyed to the lower surface of the clockspring rotor hub, which indexes the clockspring rotor to the turn signal cancel cam. Two short, sleeved pigtail wires on the upper surface of the clockspring rotor connect the clockspring to the driver airbag.

Like the clockspring in a timepiece, the clockspring tape has travel limits and can be damaged by being wound too tightly during full stop-to-stop steering wheel rotation. To prevent this from occurring, the clockspring is centered when it is installed on the steering column. Centering the clockspring indexes the clockspring tape to the movable steering components so that the tape can operate within its designed travel limits. However, if the clockspring is removed from the steering column or if the steering shaft is disconnected from the steering gear, the clockspring spool can change position relative to the other steering components. The clockspring must be re-centered following completion of this service or the tape may be damaged.

Service replacement clocksprings are shipped pre-centered and with a locking pin installed. This locking pin should not be removed until the clockspring has been installed on the steering column and the steering wheel is installed Installation. If the locking pin is removed before the clockspring is installed on a steering column, the clockspring centering procedure must be performed. Service and Repair.