CONTACT ASSEMBLY (CLOCKSPRING)
On vehicles with air bag, the contact assembly contains a clockspring, providing a constant path for electrical current between air bag module and air bag system control devices. Clockspring function is similar to horn slip ring and brush assembly.
Clockspring will be damaged if steering shaft is allowed to rotate after steering shaft has been disconnected from intermediate shaft. When disconnecting steering shaft from intermediate shaft, wire steering shaft to column to prevent clockspring damage. If reusing original contact assembly, tape clockspring rotor in stationary position before removing contact assembly from steering column. (Scheme 2)
A locking insert is installed in replacement contact assembly to prevent rotation of clockspring. DO NOT remove locking insert until contact assembly is installed on steering column. For more information on air bag system, see AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article listed below.
- «AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM»(ref-29022) - 1996
- «AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM»(ref-55425) - 1997
Scheme 2
OVERHAUL
| WARNING | When battery is disconnected, vehicle computer and memory systems may lose memory data. Driveability problems may exist until computer systems have completed a relearn cycle. See appropriate COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION section before disconnecting battery. |
- «COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES»(ref-9799) - 1996
- «COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES»(ref-9557) - 1997
| CAUTION | On models with Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), observe SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . The air bag system is powered directly from the battery through a fused circuit, and a back-up power supply is incorporated into the diagnostic monitor. Air bag system must be disabled before servicing ANY steering column component. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . |
Disassembly
Remove steering column. See STEERING COLUMN R & I. Using a hammer and chisel, make a groove in head of each of 2 steering column lock mounting bracket bolts. Remove and discard bolts. Remove column lock and mounting bracket. Remove steering column-to-"U" joint pinch bolt. Remove intermediate shaft-to-"U" joint pinch bolt. see scheme 2
Reassembly
To install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten intermediate shaft-to-"U" joint pinch bolt to specification. Tighten steering column-to-"U" joint pinch bolt to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS . Install NEW lock mounting bracket bolts. Ensure proper operation of column lock. Tighten bracket bolts until heads break off.