General Module: Description and Operation

Illuminated Entry, Aerostar

The illuminated entry system assists vehicle entry by illuminating the vehicle interior lamps (13776).

The system consists of three main components: electronic actuator module, door latch switch, and wiring harness.

Interior Lamp Switch:

The interior lamp switch (13752) is a grounding type leaf switch and is attached to the front door latch (21812) by one screw.

The system is activated by raising the door handle (22404).

This action momentarily closes a switch mounted on the front door latch, which completes the ground circuit of the electronic module and switches the system on. The vehicle interior lamps turn on, remain on for approximately 25 seconds, then automatically turn off. During this 25 second period, the system can be manually deactivated by turning the ignition switch (11572) to either RUN or ACC position.

The system will be activated every time the door handles are operated. Opening the interior lamp switch from the inside of the vehicle will not activate the system.

If the door handle is held up indefinitely so that the interior lamp switch is continuously closed, the system will operate as normal and turn off after 25 seconds. At the completion of this cycle, if the door handle is still in the raised position, the system will remain oft, and it will be impossible to activate the system from the other door handle until the raised door handle is returned to its normal position. This function is built into the logic circuitry of the system to prevent battery discharge, should the door handle be intentionally propped up or become jammed in any way.

Illuminating Entry Actuator:

The electronic actuator module is located on the rear of the B-pillar tray.

Housed within the module is a printed circuit board, the logic circuitry, and a relay to switch B+ to the various circuits. The normal module operating voltage is 9 to 16 volts. However, the unit will withstand voltage up to 24 volts for a period of 15 minutes. It cannot be damaged by reverse voltages and is unaffected by vehicle electrical transients.