horn DODGE RAM 2001 Service User Guide

includes momentary switching of the headlamp high
beam circuits to provide an optical horn feature
(sometimes referred to as flash-to-pass), which allows
the vehicle operator to momentarily flash the head-
lamp high beams as an optical signalling device.
²Intermittent Wipe Mode- The control knob of
the multi-function switch provides an intermittent
wipe mode with multiple delay interval positions.
²Turn Signal Control- The internal circuitry
and hardware of the multi-function switch provide
both momentary non-detent switching and detent
switching with automatic cancellation for both the
left and right turn signals.
²Washer Mode- A button on the end of the con-
trol stalk of the multi-function switch provides
washer system operation when the button is
depressed towards the steering column.
The multi-function switch cannot be adjusted or
repaired. If any function of the switch is faulty, or if
the switch is damaged, the entire switch unit must
be replaced.
OPERATION
The multi-function switch uses conventionally
switched outputs and a variable resistor to control
the many functions and features it provides using
hard wired circuitry. The switch is grounded at all
times through a single wire take out with an eyelet
terminal connector of the instrument panel wire har-
ness that is secured by a nut to a ground stud
located on the instrument panel armature, just above
and to the left of the glove box opening. When the
ignition switch is in the Accessory or On positions,
battery current from a fuse in the Junction Block
(JB) is provided through a fused ignition switch out-
put (run-acc) circuit. Following are descriptions of
the how the multi-function switch operates to control
the many functions and features it provides:
²Continuous Wipe Modes- When the control
knob of the multi-function switch is rotated to the
High or Low positions, the circuitry within the
switch provides a battery current output directly to
the high or low speed brush of the wiper motor.
When the control knob is in the Off position, the cir-
cuitry within the switch connects the output of the
wiper motor park switch to the low speed brush of
the wiper motor.
²Hazard Warning Control- The hazard warn-
ing push button is pushed down to unlatch the
switch and activate the hazard warning system, and
pushed down again to latch the switch and turn the
system off. When the hazard warning switch is
latched (hazard warning off), the push button will be
in a lowered position on the top of the steering col-
umn shroud; and, when the hazard warning switch is
unlatched (hazard warning on), the push button willbe in a raised position. The multi-function switch
hazard warning circuitry simultaneously provides a
signal to the hazard warning sense of the combina-
tion flasher to activate or deactivate the flasher out-
put, and directs the output of the flasher to the
hazard warning lamps.
²Headlamp Beam Selection- The multi-func-
tion switch control stalk is pulled towards the steer-
ing wheel past a detent, then released to actuate the
headlamp beam selection switch. Each time the con-
trol stalk is actuated in this manner, the opposite
headlamp mode from what is currently selected will
be activated. The internal circuitry of the headlamp
beam selection switch directs the output of the head-
lamp switch through hard wired circuitry to activate
the selected headlamp beam.
²Headlamp Optical Horn- The left multi-func-
tion switch control stalk is pulled towards the steer-
ing wheel to just before a detent, to momentarily
activate the headlamp high beams. The high beams
will remain illuminated until the control stalk is
released. The internal circuitry of the headlamp
beam selection switch provides a momentary ground
path to the headlamp high beams.
²Intermittent Wipe Mode- When the multi-
function switch control knob is rotated to the Delay
position, the circuitry within the switch connects the
output of the wiper motor relay to the low speed
brush of the wiper motor and provides a battery cur-
rent signal to the Central Timer Module (CTM). If
the Delay mode is selected, the control knob can then
be rotated to multiple minor detent positions, which
actuates a variable resistor within the switch and
provides a hard wired output to the CTM that sig-
nals the desired delay interval for the intermittent
wiper feature.
²Turn Signal Control- The multi-function
switch control stalk actuates the turn signal switch.
When the control stalk is moved in the upward direc-
tion, the right turn signal circuitry is activated; and,
when the control stalk is moved in the downward
direction, the left turn signal circuitry is activated.
The multi-function switch turn signal circuitry simul-
taneously provides a signal to the turn signal sense
of the combination flasher to activate or deactivate
the flasher output, and directs the output of the
flasher to the proper turn signal lamps. The turn sig-
nal switch has a detent position in each direction
that provides turn signals with automatic cancella-
tion, and an intermediate, momentary position in
each direction that provides turn signals only until
the left multi-function switch control stalk is
released. When the control stalk is moved to a turn
signal switch detent position, the cancel actuator
extends toward the center of the steering column. A
turn signal cancel cam that is integral to the clock-
8L - 24 LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIORBR/BE
MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH (Continued)

(3) Separate lens from lamp.
(4) Grasp bulb, push in slightly and rotate 1/2 turn
counter-clockwise.
PICKUP
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove screws from tail lamp.
(3) Grasp lamp, firmly pull lamp rearward to dis-
engage retaining studs.
(4) Remove socket from tail lamp.
(5) Separate tail lamp from cargo box.
(6) Pull bulb from socket.
INSTALLATION
CHASSIS CAB
(1) Install bulb in socket.
(2) Install lamp lens.
(3) Connect the battery negative cable.
PICKUP
(1) Install bulb in socket.
(2) Install socket in tail lamp.
(3) Position tail lamp in cargo box, engage retain-
ing studs and install screws.
(4) Connect the battery negative cable.
TAIL LAMP UNIT
REMOVAL
CAB CHASSIS
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove nuts attaching tail lamp to mounting
bracket (Fig. 29).
(3) Disengage tail lamp wire connector from body
wire harness.
(4) Separate tail lamp from vehicle.
PICKUP
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove screws from tail lamp (Fig. 30).
(3) Grasp lamp, firmly pull lamp rearward to dis-
engage retaining studs.
(4) Remove socket from tail lamp.
(5) Separate tail lamp from cargo box.
(6) Pull bulb from socket.
INSTALLATION
CAB CHASSIS
(1) Position tail lamp on vehicle.(2) Engage tail lamp wire connector to body wire
harness.
(3) Install nuts attaching tail lamp to mounting
bracket.
(4) Connect the battery negative cable.
PICKUP
(1) Install bulb in socket.
(2) Install socket in tail lamp.
(3) Position tail lamp in cargo box, engage retain-
ing studs and install screws.
(4) Connect the battery negative cable.
TURN SIGNAL CANCEL CAM
DESCRIPTION
The turn signal cancel cam is concealed within the
steering column below the steering wheel. The turn
signal cancel cam consists of two lobes that are inte-
gral to the lower surface of the clockspring rotor. The
clockspring mechanism provides turn signal cancella-
tion as well as a constant electrical connection
between the horn switch, driver airbag, speed control
switches, and remote radio switches on the steering
wheel and the instrument panel wire harness on the
steering column. The housing of the clockspring is
secured to the steering column and remains station-
Fig. 29 Tail, Brake, Turn Signal and Back-up
LampsÐCab Chassis
1 - LICENCE PLATE BRACKET
2 - FRAME
3 - TAILLAMP MOUNTING BRACKET
4 - TAILLAMP-BRAKE LAMP-BACKUP LAMP HOUSING
8L - 30 LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIORBR/BE
TAIL LAMP (Continued)

On those models equipped with the optional RKE
system, the power lock system also includes the fol-
lowing components, which are described in further
detail elsewhere in this service manual:
²Central Timer Module- The high-line or pre-
mium Central Timer Module (CTM) is located under
the driver side end of the instrument panel, inboard
of the instrument panel steering column opening.
The high-line or premium CTM contains a micropro-
cessor and software that allow it to provide the many
electronic functions and features not available with
base version of the power lock system.
²Door Cylinder Lock Switches- A resistor-
multiplexed switch located on the back of each front
door lock cylinder allows the power door lock system
to be operated using a key inserted in either the
driver or passenger front door lock cylinder.
Some of the additional features of the power lock
system found in vehicles with the RKE system option
include:
²Automatic Door Lock- The high-line/premium
CTM provides an optional automatic door lock fea-
ture (also known as rolling door locks). This is a pro-
grammable feature.
²Central Locking- The high-line/premium CTM
provides an optional central locking/unlocking fea-
ture.
²Door Lock Inhibit- The high-line/premium
CTM provides a door lock inhibit feature.
²Enhanced Accident Response- The high-line/
premium CTM provides an optional enhanced acci-
dent response feature. This is a programmable
feature.
Hard wired circuitry connects the power lock sys-
tem components to the electrical system of the vehi-
cle. These hard wired circuits are integral to several
wire harnesses, which are routed throughout the
vehicle and retained by many different methods.
These circuits may be connected to each other, to the
vehicle electrical system and to the power lock sys-
tem components through the use of a combination of
soldered splices, splice block connectors, and many
different types of wire harness terminal connectors
and insulators. Refer to the appropriate wiring infor-
mation. The wiring information includes wiring dia-
grams, proper wire and connector repair procedures,
further details on wire harness routing and reten-
tion, as well as pin-out and location views for the
various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.
Many of the electronic features in the vehicle con-
trolled or supported by the high-line or premium ver-
sions of the CTM are programmable using the
DRBIIItscan tool. In addition, the high-line/pre-
mium CTM software is Flash compatible, which
means it can be reprogrammed using Flash repro-
gramming procedures. However, if any of the CTMhardware components are damaged or faulty, the
entire CTM unit must be replaced. The power lock
system components and the hard wired inputs or out-
puts of the CTM can be diagnosed using conventional
diagnostic tools and methods; however, for diagnosis
of the high-line or premium versions of the CTM or
the CCD data bus, the use of a DRBIIItscan tool is
required. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic infor-
mation.
DESCRIPTION - REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY
SYSTEM
A Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system is an avail-
able option on this model. The Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) system is a Radio Frequency (RF) system that
allows the remote operation of the power lock system
and, if the vehicle is so equipped, the Vehicle Theft
Security System (VTSS). (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY - DESCRIPTION).
The RKE system includes the following major compo-
nents, which are described in further detail else-
where in this service manual:
²Central Timer Module- The high-line or pre-
mium Central Timer Module (CTM) is located under
the driver side end of the instrument panel, inboard
of the instrument panel steering column opening.
The high-line or premium CTM contains a micropro-
cessor, an RF receiver, and the software that allow it
to provide the many electronic functions and features
of the RKE system.
²Keyless Entry Transmitter- The keyless
entry transmitter is a small, battery-powered, RF
transmitter that is contained within a molded plastic
case that is designed to also serve as a convenient
key fob.
Some additional features of the RKE system
include:
²Horn Chirp- This feature provides a short,
sharp chirp of the vehicle horn to give an audible
confirmation that a valid Lock signal has been
received from the RKE transmitter. This feature can
be enabled or disabled and, if enabled, one of two
optional horn chirp durations (twenty or forty milli-
seconds) can also be selected.
²Illuminated Entry- This feature turns on the
courtesy lamps in the vehicle for a timed interval
(about thirty seconds) each time a valid Unlock sig-
nal has been received from the RKE transmitter.
²Panic Mode- This feature allows the vehicle
operator to cause the vehicle horn to pulse, the head-
lights to flash, and the courtesy lamps to illuminate
for about three minutes by depressing a Panic button
on the RKE transmitter. Pressing the Panic button a
second time will cancel the Panic mode. A vehicle
speed of about 24 kilometers-per-hour (15 miles-per-
hour) will also cancel the panic mode.
8N - 2 POWER LOCKSBR/BE
POWER LOCKS (Continued)

²Horn Chirp- If this feature is enabled, the
CTM provides a horn chirp by internally pulling the
control coil of the horn relay to ground through a
hard wired circuit output.
²Illuminated Entry- The CTM provides illumi-
nated entry by internally controlling the current flow
to the courtesy lamps in the vehicle through a hard
wired output circuit.
²Panic Mode- The CTM provides the horn pulse
and headlight flash by internally pulling the control
coils of the horn relay and headlamp relay to ground
through hard wired circuit outputs. The CTM con-
trols the current flow to the courtesy lamps in the
vehicle through a hard wired output circuit. The
CTM also monitors the vehicle speed through elec-
tronic messages it receives from the Powertrain Con-
trol Module (PCM) over the Chrysler Collision
Detection (CCD) data bus network.
The RKE system operates on battery current received
through a fused B(+) circuit from a fuse in the Junction
Block (JB) so that the system remains functional,
regardless of the ignition switch position. The RKE sys-
tem can retain the vehicle access codes of up to four
RKE transmitters. The transmitter codes are retained
in RKE system memory, even if the battery is discon-
nected. If a transmitter is faulty or is lost, new trans-
mitter vehicle access codes can be programmed into the
system using a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appro-
priate diagnostic information. Many of the electronic
features in the vehicle controlled or supported by the
high-line or premium versions of the CTM are program-
mable using the DRBIIItscan tool. In addition, the
high-line/premium CTM software is Flash compatible,
which means it can be reprogrammed using Flash
reprogramming procedures. However, if any of the CTM
hardware components are damaged or faulty, the entire
CTM unit must be replaced. The hard wired inputs or
outputs of the CTM can be diagnosed using conven-
tional diagnostic tools and methods; however, for diag-
nosis of the high-line or premium versions of the CTM
or the CCD data bus, the use of a DRBIIItscan tool is
required. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic informa-
tion.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - POWER LOCK
SYSTEM
The following tests provide a preliminary diagnosis
for the power lock system usedonlyon vehicles
equipped with a base version of the Central Timer
Module (CTM). These testsdo notapply to the diag-
nosis of the power lock system used on vehicles
equipped with the optional Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) system, which includes a high-line or premium
CTM. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/POWER LOCKS -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - POWER LOCK &
REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM). Refer to theappropriate wiring information. The wiring informa-
tion includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and con-
nector repair procedures, details of wire harness
routing and retention, connector pin-out information
and location views for the various wire harness con-
nectors, splices and grounds.
PRELIMINARY TESTS
To begin this test, note the system operation while
you actuate both the Lock and Unlock functions with
the power lock switches. Then, proceed as follows:
²If the entire power lock system fails to function
with both of the power lock switches, check the fused
B(+) fuse in the Junction Block (JB). If the fuse is
OK, check the ground circuit between the driver side
power lock switch and ground (G301). If the ground
circuit is OK, proceed to the diagnosis of the power
lock motors. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/POWER
LOCKS/POWER LOCK MOTOR - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING).
²If the entire power lock system fails to function
with only one of the power lock switches, proceed to
diagnosis of the power lock switches. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/POWER LOCKS/POWER LOCK
SWITCH - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
²If only one power lock motor fails to operate
with both power lock switches, proceed to diagnosis
of the power lock motor. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
POWER LOCKS/POWER LOCK MOTOR - DIAGNO-
SIS AND TESTING).
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - POWER LOCK &
REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM
The following tests include a preliminary diagnosis
for the power lock system usedonlyon vehicles
equipped with the optional Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) system, which includes a high-line or premium
Central Timer Module (CTM). These testsdo not
apply to the diagnosis of the power lock system on
vehicles equipped with a base version of the CTM.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/POWER LOCKS - DIAG-
NOSIS AND TESTING - POWER LOCK SYSTEM).
These tests will help to diagnose the hard wired
components and circuits of the power lock system.
However, these tests may not prove conclusive in the
diagnosis of this system. In order to obtain conclusive
testing of the power lock and RKE system, the
Chrysler Collision Detection (CCD) data bus network
and all of the electronic modules that provide inputs
to, or receive outputs from the power lock and RKE
system components must be checked.
The most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to
diagnose the power lock and RKE system requires the
use of a DRBIIItscan tool. The DRBIIItscan tool can
provide confirmation that the CCD data bus is func-
tional, that all of the electronic modules are sending
8N - 4 POWER LOCKSBR/BE
POWER LOCKS (Continued)

and receiving the proper messages on the CCD data
bus, that the CTM is receiving the proper hard wired
inputs, and that the power lock motors are being sent
the proper hard wired outputs by the CTM.
Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The
wiring information includes wiring diagrams, proper
wire and connector repair procedures, details of wire
harness routing and retention, connector pin-out
information and location views for the various wire
harness connectors, splices and grounds.
PRELIMINARY TESTS
To begin this test, note the system operation while
you actuate both the Lock and Unlock functions with
the power lock switches, the door cylinder lock switches,
and the RKE transmitter. Then, proceed as follows:
²If the entire power lock system fails to function
with the power lock switches, the door cylinder lock
switches, or the RKE transmitter, check the fused
B(+) fuse in the Junction Block (JB). If the fuse is
OK, proceed to the diagnosis of the power lock
motors. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/POWER LOCKS/
POWER LOCK MOTOR - DIAGNOSIS AND TEST-
ING).
²If the power lock system functions with both
power lock switches, and both door cylinder lock
switches, but not with the RKE transmitter, proceed
to the diagnosis of the transmitter. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/POWER LOCKS/REMOTE KEYLESS
ENTRY TRANSMITTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TEST-
ING).
²
If the entire power lock system functions with the
RKE transmitter, and both door cylinder lock switches,
but not with one or both of the power lock switches, pro-
ceed to diagnosis of the power lock switches. (Refer to 8
- ELECTRICAL/POWER LOCKS/POWER LOCK
SWITCH - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
²If the entire power lock system functions with
the RKE transmitter, and both power lock switches,
but not with one or both of the door cylinder lock
switches, proceed to diagnosis of the door cylinder
lock switches. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/POWER
LOCKS/DOOR CYLINDER LOCK SWITCH - DIAG-
NOSIS AND TESTING).
²If one power lock motor fails to operate with
both of the power lock switches, both of the door cyl-
inder lock switches and/or the RKE transmitter, pro-
ceed to diagnosis of the power lock motor. (Refer to 8
- ELECTRICAL/POWER LOCKS/POWER LOCK
MOTOR - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
If the problem being diagnosed is related to one or
more of the electronic features (automatic locks, door
lock inhibit, enhanced accident response, illuminated
entry, panic mode, or RKE horn chirp), further diag-
nosis should be performed using a DRBIIItscan tool.
Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
DOOR CYLINDER LOCK
SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
A door cylinder lock switch is snapped onto the
back of the key lock cylinder inside each front door of
vehicles equipped with a high-line or premium Cen-
tral Timer Module (CTM). The door cylinder lock
switch is a resistor multiplexed momentary switch
that is hard wired in series between a body ground
and the CTM through the front door wire harness.
The door cylinder lock switches are driven by the key
lock cylinders and contain three internal resistors.
One resistor is used for the neutral switch position,
one for the Lock position, and one for the Unlock
position.
The door cylinder lock switches cannot be adjusted
or repaired and, if faulty or damaged, they must be
replaced.
OPERATION
The door cylinder lock switches are actuated by the
key lock cylinder when the key is inserted in the lock
cylinder and turned to the lock or unlock positions.
The door cylinder lock switch closes a path to ground
through one of three internal resistors for the Cen-
tral Timer Module (CTM) when the front door key
lock cylinder is in the Lock, Unlock, or Neutral posi-
tions. The CTM reads the switch status through an
internal pull-up, then uses this information as an
input for both power lock system and Vehicle Theft
Security System (VTSS) operation.
The door cylinder lock switches and circuits can be
diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools and
methods.
DIAGNOSIS & TESTING - DOOR CYLINDER
LOCK SWITCH
Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The
wiring information includes wiring diagrams, proper
wire and connector repair procedures, details of wire
harness routing and retention, connector pin-out
information and location views for the various wire
harness connectors, splices and grounds.
(1) Disconnect the door cylinder lock switch pigtail
wire connector from the door wire harness connector.
(2) Using an ohmmeter, perform the switch resis-
tance checks between the two cavities of the door cyl-
inder lock switch pigtail wire connector. Actuate the
switch by rotating the key in the door lock cylinder
to test for the proper resistance values in each of the
three switch positions, as shown in the Door Cylinder
Lock Switch chart.
BR/BEPOWER LOCKS 8N - 5
POWER LOCKS (Continued)

(1) Position the child tether anchor (standard cab)
or child tether (club/quad cab) onto the cab back
panel (Fig. 7).
(2) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
child tether anchor (standard cab) or child tether
(club/quad cab) onto the cab back panel. Tighten the
screw to 13.5 N´m (120 in. lbs.).
(3) Reinstall the trim onto the inside of the cab
back panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/REAR
CLOSURE PANEL TRIM - INSTALLATION).
CLOCKSPRING
DESCRIPTION
The clockspring assembly is secured with two inte-
gral plastic latches onto the steering column lock
housing near the top of the steering column, behind
the steering wheel. The clockspring consists of a flat,
round molded plastic case with a stubby tail that
hangs below the steering column and contains a con-
nector receptacle and a long pigtail wire with connec-
tor that face toward the instrument panel. Within
the plastic housing is a spool-like molded plastic
rotor with a large exposed hub. The upper surface of
the rotor hub has a large center hole, two large flats,
two auto-locking tabs, and three short pigtail wires
with connectors that face toward the steering wheel.
The lower surface of the rotor hub has two integral
turn signal cancelling cam lobes. Within the plastic
case and wound around the rotor spool is a long rib-
bon-like tape that consists of several thin copper wire
leads sandwiched between two thin plastic mem-
branes. The outer end of the tape terminates at the
connector receptacle and pigtail wire that face the
instrument panel, while the inner end of the tape
terminates at the pigtail wires on the hub of the
clockspring rotor that face the steering wheel.
Service replacement clocksprings are shipped pre-
centered and with a piece of tape covering the
engaged auto-locking tabs. The auto-locking tabs
secure the centered clockspring rotor to the clock-
spring case during shipment, but these tabs are auto-
matically disengaged once the clockspring is installed
on the steering column. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
RESTRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING - STANDARD PRO-
CEDURE - CLOCKSPRING CENTERING).
The clockspring cannot be repaired. If the clock-
spring is faulty, damaged, or if the driver airbag has
been deployed, the clockspring must be replaced.
OPERATION
The clockspring is a mechanical electrical circuit
component that is used to provide continuous electri-
cal continuity between the fixed instrument panel
wire harness and the electrical components mountedon or in the rotating steering wheel. On this model
the rotating electrical components include the driver
airbag, the horn switch, the speed control switches,
and the remote radio switches if the vehicle is so
equipped. The clockspring case is positioned and
secured to the upper steering column lock housing by
two integral plastic latches. The connector receptacle
on the tail of the fixed clockspring housing connect
the clockspring to the vehicle electrical system
through a take out with connector from the instru-
ment panel wire harness. The lower clockspring pig-
tail on the tail of the clockspring housing connect the
clockspring driver airbag circuits to a separate take
out and connector of the instrument panel wire har-
ness located near the lower instrument panel rein-
forcement, below the steering column. The
clockspring rotor is movable and is keyed to the hub
of the steering wheel by two large flats that are
molded into the rotor hub. The two lobes on the
lower surface of the clockspring rotor hub contact a
turn signal cancel actuator of the multi-function
switch to provide automatic turn signal cancellation.
The pigtail wires on the upper surface of the clock-
spring connect the clockspring to the horn switch, the
two speed control switches, and the remote radio
switches on vehicles that are so equipped.
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 must be centered when it is installed on
the steering column. Centering the clockspring
indexes the clockspring spool 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
movable steering components and must be re-cen-
tered following completion of the service or the tape
may be damaged. Service replacement clocksprings
are shipped pre-centered and with the auto-locking
tabs engaged. A piece of tape covers the auto-locking
tabs to discourage tampering. These auto-locking
tabs should not be disengaged until the clockspring
has been installed on the steering column. If this
shipping tape is removed or damaged, or if the auto-
locking tabs are disengaged before the clockspring is
installed on a steering column, the clockspring cen-
tering procedure must be performed. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - CLOCKSPRING CEN-
TERING).
8O - 10 RESTRAINTSBR/BE
CHILD TETHER (Continued)

STANDARD PROCEDURE - CLOCKSPRING
CENTERING
The clockspring is designed to wind and unwind
when the steering wheel is rotated, but is only
designed to rotate the same number of turns (about
five complete rotations) as the steering wheel can be
turned from stop to stop. Centering the clockspring
indexes the clockspring tape to other steering compo-
nents so that it can operate within its designed
travel limits. The rotor of a centered clockspring can
be rotated two and one-half turns in either direction
from the centered position, without damaging the
clockspring tape.
However, if the clockspring is removed for service
or if the steering column is disconnected from the
steering gear, the clockspring tape can change posi-
tion relative to the other steering components. The
clockspring must then be re-centered following com-
pletion of such service or the clockspring tape may be
damaged. Service replacement clocksprings are
shipped pre-centered and with the auto-locking tabs
engaged (raised). These auto-locking tabs should not
be disengaged until the clockspring has been
installed on the steering column. If the auto-locking
tabs are disengaged before the clockspring is
installed on a steering column, the clockspring cen-
tering procedure must be performed.
WARNING: DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM
BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL,
STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCON-
NECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE
(GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR
THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE
THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN
ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSI-
BLE PERSONAL INJURY.
NOTE: Before starting this procedure, be certain to
turn the steering wheel until the front wheels are in
the straight-ahead position.
(1) Place the front wheels in the straight-ahead
position.
(2) Remove the clockspring from the steering col-
umn. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
CLOCKSPRING - REMOVAL).(3) Depress the two plastic clockspring auto-lock-
ing tabs (Fig. 8).
(4) Keeping the auto-locking tabs depressed, rotate
the clockspring rotor clockwise to the end of its
travel.Do not apply excessive torque.
(5) From the end of the clockwise travel, rotate the
rotor about two and one-half turns counterclockwise,
then release the auto-locking tabs. The clockspring
pigtail wire for the horn switch should end up at the
top, and the pigtail wires for the airbag, optional
speed control switches, and optional remote radio
switches at the bottom. The clockspring is now cen-
tered.
(6) The front wheels should still be in the straight-
ahead position. Reinstall the clockspring onto the
steering column. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RE-
STRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING - INSTALLATION).
REMOVAL
The clockspring cannot be repaired. It must be
replaced if faulty or damaged, or if the driver airbag
has been deployed.
Fig. 8 Clockspring Auto-Locking Tabs
1 - AIRBAG MODULE WIRE
2 - SPEED CONTROL WIRING
3 - HORN WIRE
4 - CLOCKSPRING ASSEMBLY
5 - AUTO-LOCKING TABS
BR/BERESTRAINTS 8O - 11
CLOCKSPRING (Continued)

DRIVER AIRBAG
DESCRIPTION
The driver airbag protective trim cover is the most
visible part of the driver airbag. The airbag used in
this model is a Next Generation-type that complies
with revised federal airbag standards to deploy with
less force than those used in some prior models. The
driver airbag is located in the center of the steering
wheel, where it is secured with two screws to the
steering wheel armature. Concealed beneath the
driver airbag trim cover are the horn switch, the
folded airbag cushion, the airbag retainer or housing,
the airbag inflator, and the retainers that secure the
trim cover to the airbag housing. The resistive mem-
brane-type horn switch is secured with heat stakes to
the inside surface of the airbag trim cover, between
the trim cover and the folded airbag cushion. The air-
bag inflator is a conventional pyrotechnic-type unit
that is secured with nuts to four studs on the back of
the stamped metal airbag housing.
The driver airbag trim cover has locking blocks
molded into the back side of it that engage a lip
formed around the perimeter of the airbag housing.
Two stamped metal retainers then fit over the infla-
tor mounting studs on the back of the airbag housing
and tabs on the retainer are engaged in slots on the
inside of the trim cover, securely locking the cover
into place. One horn switch pigtail wire has an eyelet
terminal connector that is captured on the upper left
inflator mounting stud between the inflator and the
upper trim cover retainer. The connector insulator of
the other horn switch pigtail wire is routed between
the upper right inflator mounting stud and the infla-
tor, where it is captured by a small plastic that is
pushed onto the stud. The driver airbag cannot be
repaired, and must be replaced if deployed or in any
way damaged. The driver airbag trim cover and horn
switch are available as a unit, and may be disassem-
bled from the driver airbag for service replacement.
OPERATION
The driver airbag is deployed by an electrical sig-
nal generated by the Airbag Control Module (ACM)
through the driver airbag line 1 and line 2 (or squib)
circuits. When the ACM sends the proper electrical
signal to the airbag inflator, the electrical energy
generates enough heat to initiate a small pyrotechnic
charge which, in turn, ignites chemical pellets within
the inflator. Once ignited, these chemical pellets burn
rapidly and produce a large quantity of nitrogen gas.
The inflator is sealed to the back of the airbag hous-
ing and a diffuser in the inflator directs all of the
nitrogen gas into the airbag cushion, causing the
cushion to inflate. As the cushion inflates, the driver
airbag trim cover will split at predetermined break-out lines, then fold back out of the way along with
the horn switch. Following an airbag deployment, the
airbag cushion quickly deflates by venting the nitro-
gen gas towards the instrument panel through the
porous fabric material used on the steering wheel
side of the airbag cushion.
Some of the chemicals used to create the nitrogen
gas are considered hazardous in their solid state,
before they are burned, but they are securely sealed
within the airbag inflator. However, the nitrogen gas
that is produced when the chemicals are burned is
harmless. A small amount of residue from the burned
chemicals may cause some temporary discomfort if it
contacts the skin, eyes, or breathing passages. If skin
or eye irritation is noticed, rinse the affected area
with plenty of cool, clean water. If breathing pas-
sages are irritated, move to another area where there
is plenty of clean, fresh air to breath. If the irritation
is not alleviated by these actions, contact a physician.
REMOVAL
The following procedure is for replacement of a faulty
or damaged driver airbag. If the driver airbag has been
deployed, the clockspring and the steering column
assembly must also be replaced. (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING - REMOVAL)
(Refer to 19 - STEERING/COLUMN - REMOVAL).
WARNING: DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAU-
TIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG
DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
WARNING: WHEN REMOVING A DEPLOYED AIR-
BAG, RUBBER GLOVES, EYE PROTECTION, AND A
LONG-SLEEVED SHIRT SHOULD BE WORN. THERE
MAY BE DEPOSITS ON THE AIRBAG CUSHION AND
OTHER INTERIOR SURFACES. IN LARGE DOSES,
THESE DEPOSITS MAY CAUSE IRRITATION TO THE
SKIN AND EYES.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. If either of the airbags has not been deployed,
wait two minutes for the system capacitor to dis-
charge before further service.
(2) From the underside of the steering wheel,
remove the two screws that secure the driver airbag
to the steering wheel armature (Fig. 10).
8O - 14 RESTRAINTSBR/BE

(3) Pull the driver airbag away from the steering
wheel far enough to access the two wire harness con-
nectors at the back of the airbag.
(4) Disconnect the clockspring horn switch pigtail
wire connector from the horn switch feed pigtail wire
connector, which is located at the back of the driver
airbag.
CAUTION: Do not pull on the clockspring pigtail
wire to disengage the connector from the driver air-
bag inflator connector receptacle.
(5) The clockspring driver airbag pigtail wire con-
nector is a tight snap-fit into the airbag inflator con-
nector receptacle, which is located at the back of the
driver airbag. Firmly grasp and pull or gently pry on
the clockspring driver airbag wire harness connector
to disconnect it from the airbag inflator connector
receptacle.
(6) Remove the driver airbag from the steering
wheel.
(7) If the driver airbag has been deployed, the
clockspring and the steering column must be
replaced. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
CLOCKSPRING - REMOVAL) (Refer to 19 - STEER-
ING/COLUMN - REMOVAL).DISASSEMBLY
The horn switch is integral to the driver airbag
trim cover. If either component is faulty or damaged,
the entire driver airbag trim cover and horn switch
unit must be replaced.
WARNING: DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM
BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL,
STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCON-
NECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE
(GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR
THE AIRBAG SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE
THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN
ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSI-
BLE PERSONAL INJURY.
Fig. 10 Driver Airbag Remove/Install
1 - DRIVER AIRBAG
2 - HORN SWITCH FEED PIGTAIL WIRE CONNECTOR3 - CLOCKSPRING PIGTAIL WIRE CONNECTOR
4 - SCREW (2)
BR/BERESTRAINTS 8O - 15
DRIVER AIRBAG (Continued)

WARNING: THE HORN SWITCH IS INTEGRAL TO
THE DRIVER AIRBAG UNIT. SERVICE OF THIS UNIT
SHOULD BE PERFORMED ONLY BY DAIMLER-
CHRYSLER-TRAINED AND AUTHORIZED DEALER
SERVICE TECHNICIANS. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS OR TO FOLLOW THE
PROPER PROCEDURES COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL, INCOMPLETE, OR IMPROPER AIRBAG
DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE OCCUPANT INJU-
RIES.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. If either of the airbags has not been deployed,
wait two minutes for the system capacitor to dis-
charge before further service.
(2) Remove the driver airbag from the steering
wheel. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
DRIVER AIRBAG - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the plastic wire retainer that captures
the horn switch feed pigtail wire between the upper
left inflator stud and the inflator on the back of the
driver airbag housing (Fig. 11).
(4) Remove the four nuts that secure the upper
and lower trim cover retainers to the studs on the
back of the driver airbag housing
(5) Remove the upper and lower trim cover retain-
ers from the airbag housing studs (Fig. 12).
(6) Remove the horn switch ground pigtail wire
eyelet terminal from the upper right airbag housing
stud.
(7) Disengage the six trim cover locking blocks
from the lip around the outside edge of the driver
airbag housing and remove the housing from the
cover (Fig. 13).
Fig. 11 Driver Airbag Trim Cover Retainer Nuts
Remove/Install
1 - HORN SWITCH FEED PIGTAIL WIRE
2 - HORN SWITCH GROUND PIGTAIL WIRE
3 - NUTS
4 - WIRE RETAINER
Fig. 12 Driver Airbag Trim Cover Retainers
1 - UPPER RETAINER
2 - AIRBAG HOUSING
3 - TRIM COVER
4 - NUT (4)
5 - LOWER RETAINER
6 - INFLATOR
7 - STUDS
Fig. 13 Driver Airbag Trim Cover Remove/Install
1 - RETAINER SLOTS
2 - RETAINER SLOTS
3 - HORN SWITCH
4 - LOCKING BLOCKS
8O - 16 RESTRAINTSBR/BE
DRIVER AIRBAG (Continued)