battery replacement DODGE RAM 2001 Service Owner's Guide

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

ASSEMBLY
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.
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.
WARNING: USE EXTREME CARE TO PREVENT ANY
FOREIGN MATERIAL FROM ENTERING THE DRIVER
AIRBAG, OR BECOMING ENTRAPPED BETWEEN
THE DRIVER AIRBAG CUSHION AND THE DRIVER
AIRBAG TRIM COVER. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS
WARNING COULD RESULT IN OCCUPANT INJURIES
UPON AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT.
WARNING: THE DRIVER AIRBAG TRIM COVER
MUST NEVER BE PAINTED. REPLACEMENT TRIM
COVERS ARE SERVICED IN THE ORIGINAL COL-
ORS. PAINT MAY CHANGE THE WAY IN WHICH THE
MATERIAL OF THE TRIM COVER RESPONDS TO AN
AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT. FAILURE TO OBSERVE
THIS WARNING COULD RESULT IN OCCUPANT
INJURIES UPON AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT.
(1) Carefully position the driver airbag in the trim
cover. Be certain that the horn switch feed and
ground pigtail wires are not pinched between the air-
bag housing and the trim cover locking blocks.
(2) Engage the upper and lower trim cover locking
blocks with the lip of the driver airbag housing, thenengage the locking blocks on each side of the trim
cover with the lip of the housing. Be certain that
each of the locking blocks is fully engaged on the lip
of the airbag housing (Fig. 14).
(3) Reinstall the horn switch ground pigtail wire
eyelet terminal over the left upper airbag housing
stud.
(4) Reinstall the upper and lower airbag trim cover
retainers over the airbag housing studs. Be certain
that the tabs on the retainers are engaged in the
retainer slots of the trim cover locking blocks (Fig.
13).
(5) Install and tighten the nuts that secure the
trim cover retainers to the airbag housing studs.
Tighten the nuts to 10 N´m (90 in. lbs.).
(6) Route the horn switch feed pigtail wire
between the inflator housing and the right upper air-
bag housing stud.
(7) Reinstall the plastic wire retainer onto the
right upper airbag housing stud to capture horn
switch feed pigtail wire.
(8) Reinstall the driver airbag onto the steering
wheel. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
DRIVER AIRBAG - INSTALLATION).
Fig. 14 Driver Airbag Trim Cover Locking Blocks
Engaged
1 - LIP
2 - TRIM COVER
3 - HORN SWITCH
4 - AIRBAG HOUSING
5 - LOCKING BLOCK
BR/BERESTRAINTS 8O - 17
DRIVER AIRBAG (Continued)

INSTALLATION
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 -
ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING -
REMOVAL) and (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. 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.
WARNING: USE EXTREME CARE TO PREVENT ANY
FOREIGN MATERIAL FROM ENTERING THE DRIVER
AIRBAG, OR BECOMING ENTRAPPED BETWEEN
THE DRIVER AIRBAG CUSHION AND THE DRIVER
AIRBAG TRIM COVER. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS
WARNING COULD RESULT IN OCCUPANT INJURIES
UPON AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT.
WARNING: THE DRIVER AIRBAG TRIM COVER
MUST NEVER BE PAINTED. REPLACEMENT TRIM
COVERS ARE SERVICED IN THE ORIGINAL COL-
ORS. PAINT MAY CHANGE THE WAY IN WHICH THE
MATERIAL OF THE TRIM COVER RESPONDS TO AN
AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT. FAILURE TO OBSERVE
THIS WARNING COULD RESULT IN OCCUPANT
INJURIES UPON AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT.
(1) Assemble the driver airbag trim cover onto the
airbag housing. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RE-
STRAINTS/DRIVER AIRBAG - ASSEMBLY).
(2) When installing the driver airbag, reconnect
the clockspring driver airbag pigtail wire harness
connector to the airbag inflator connector receptacle
by pressing straight in on the connector (Fig. 10). You
can be certain that the connector is fully engaged by
listening carefully for a distinct, audible click as the
connector snaps into place.
(3) Reconnect the clockspring horn switch pigtail
wire harness connector to the horn switch feed pig-
tail wire connector, which is located on the back of
the driver airbag.(4) Carefully position the driver airbag in the
steering wheel. Be certain that the clockspring pig-
tail wires in the steering wheel hub area are not
pinched between the driver airbag and the steering
wheel.
(5) From the underside of the steering wheel,
install and tighten the two screws that secure the
driver airbag to the steering wheel armature.
Tighten the screws to 10.2 N´m (90 in. lbs.).
(6) Do not reconnect the battery negative cable at
this time. The airbag system verification test proce-
dure should be performed following service of any
airbag system component. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
VERIFICATION TEST).
FRONT SEAT BELT &
RETRACTOR
REMOVAL - STANDARD CAB
WARNING: DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT
BELT SERVICE, CAREFULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT
BELTS, BUCKLES, MOUNTING HARDWARE, AND
RETRACTORS FOR PROPER INSTALLATION,
OPERATION, OR DAMAGE. REPLACE ANY BELT
THAT IS CUT, FRAYED, OR TORN. STRAIGHTEN
ANY BELT THAT IS TWISTED. TIGHTEN ANY
LOOSE FASTENERS. REPLACE ANY BELT THAT
HAS A DAMAGED OR INOPERATIVE BUCKLE OR
RETRACTOR. REPLACE ANY BELT THAT HAS A
BENT OR DAMAGED LATCH PLATE OR ANCHOR
PLATE. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT BELT
COMPONENT. ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED OR
FAULTY SEAT BELT COMPONENTS WITH THE COR-
RECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENT PARTS
LISTED IN THE MOPAR PARTS CATALOG.
(1) Move the front seats to their most forward
position for easiest access to the front shoulder belt
lower seat belt anchor plate, the retractor, and the
B-pillar.
(2) Remove the screw that secures the lower seat
belt anchor plate to the floor panel near the base of
the B-pillar.
(3) Unsnap and lift the front shoulder belt turning
loop cover to access the screw that secures the turn-
ing loop to the height adjuster (Fig. 15).
(4) Remove the screw that secures the shoulder
belt turning loop to the height adjuster.
(5) Remove the shoulder belt turning loop from the
height adjuster.
(6) Remove the trim from the B-pillar. (Refer to 23
- BODY/INTERIOR/B-PILLAR TRIM - REMOVAL).
8O - 18 RESTRAINTSBR/BE
DRIVER AIRBAG (Continued)

INSTALLATION
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.
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 UNIT AND
OTHER INTERIOR SURFACES. IN LARGE DOSES,
THESE DEPOSITS MAY CAUSE IRRITATION TO THE
SKIN AND EYES.
WARNING: USE EXTREME CARE TO PREVENT ANY
FOREIGN MATERIAL FROM ENTERING THE PAS-
SENGER AIRBAG, OR BECOMING ENTRAPPED
BETWEEN THE PASSENGER AIRBAG CUSHION
AND THE PASSENGER AIRBAG DOOR. FAILURE TO
OBSERVE THIS WARNING COULD RESULT IN
OCCUPANT INJURIES UPON AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
WARNING: THE PASSENGER AIRBAG DOOR MUST
NEVER BE PAINTED. REPLACEMENT PASSENGER
AIRBAG DOORS ARE SERVICED IN THE ORIGINAL
COLORS. PAINT MAY CHANGE THE WAY IN WHICH
THE MATERIAL OF THE AIRBAG DOOR RESPONDS
TO AN AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT. FAILURE TO
OBSERVE THIS WARNING COULD RESULT IN
OCCUPANT INJURIES UPON AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
(1) Carefully inspect the five receptacle slots
around the top and sides of the passenger airbag
door opening of the instrument panel top cover.
Remove any of the small metal airbag door snap
retainers that did not remain on the molded airbag
door tabs during the removal procedure.
(2) If the removed passenger airbag module is
being reinstalled, install the metal snap retainers
recovered in Step 1onto the proper airbag door tabs.
Each of the five molded airbag door tabs must have a
snap retainer on it before it is installed in the instru-ment panel. New replacement passenger airbags
come with new airbag door snap retainers installed.
(3) Carefully position the passenger airbag onto
the instrument panel.
(4) Align the five tabs and retainers on the upper
edge and sides of the passenger airbag door with the
receptacles in the instrument panel top cover.
(5) Using hand pressure, press firmly on the pas-
senger airbag door over each of the tab and retainer
locations until each of them is fully engaged in its
receptacle. Be certain that each of the metal snap
retainers is in position on the airbag door tabs.
(6) Install and tighten the five screws that secure
the passenger airbag front and rear mounting brack-
ets to the instrument panel (Fig. 18). Tighten the
screws to 9 N´m (80 in. lbs.).
(7) Install and tighten the four screws that secure
the two plastic support brackets of the passenger air-
bag door panel outlet housing to the glove box open-
ing upper reinforcement. Tighten the screws to 2.2
N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(8) Reach through and above the glove box opening
to access and reconnect the passenger airbag pigtail
wire connector to the instrument panel wire harness
connector (Fig. 17). Be certain that the passenger air-
bag pigtail wire connector is fully engaged with and
latched to the instrument panel wire harness connec-
tor.
(9) Reinstall the glove box opening upper trim onto
the instrument panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRU-
MENT PANEL/GLOVE BOX OPENING UPPER
TRIM - INSTALLATION).
(10) Reinstall the glove box onto the instrument
panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/
GLOVE BOX - INSTALLATION).
(11) Do not reconnect the battery negative cable at
this time. The airbag system verification test proce-
dure should be performed following service of any
airbag system component. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
VERIFICATION TEST).
PASSENGER AIRBAG ON/OFF
SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
The passenger airbag on-off switch is standard
equipment on this model when it is not equipped
with a full size rear seat. This switch is a single pole,
single throw switch with a single integral red Light-
Emitting Diode (LED), and a non-coded key cylinder-
type actuator. The switch is located in the upper
right corner of instrument panel cluster bezel, near
the center of instrument panel to make the Off indi-
cator visible to all front seat occupants. When the
BR/BERESTRAINTS 8O - 23
PASSENGER AIRBAG (Continued)

(5) Position the passenger airbag on/off switch and
face plate unit to the opening in the instrument
panel (Fig. 21).
(6) Install and tighten the three screws that secure
the passenger airbag on/off switch face plate to the
instrument panel. Tighten the screws to 2.2 N´m (20
in. lbs.).
(7) Reinstall the glove box onto the instrument
panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/
GLOVE BOX - INSTALLATION).
(8) Reinstall the cluster bezel onto the instrument
panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/
CLUSTER BEZEL - INSTALLATION).
(9) Do not reconnect the battery negative cable at
this time. The airbag system verification test proce-
dure should be performed following service of any
airbag system component. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
VERIFICATION TEST).
REAR SEAT BELT &
RETRACTOR
REMOVAL
WARNING: DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT
BELT SERVICE, CAREFULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT
BELTS, BUCKLES, MOUNTING HARDWARE, AND
RETRACTORS FOR PROPER INSTALLATION,
OPERATION, OR DAMAGE. REPLACE ANY BELT
THAT IS CUT, FRAYED, OR TORN. STRAIGHTEN
ANY BELT THAT IS TWISTED. TIGHTEN ANY
LOOSE FASTENERS. REPLACE ANY BELT THAT
HAS A DAMAGED OR INOPERATIVE BUCKLE OR
RETRACTOR. REPLACE ANY BELT THAT HAS A
BENT OR DAMAGED LATCH PLATE OR ANCHOR
PLATE. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT BELT
COMPONENT. ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED OR
FAULTY SEAT BELT COMPONENTS WITH THE COR-
RECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENT PARTS
LISTED IN THE MOPAR PARTS CATALOG.
(1) Remove the rear seat from the passenger com-
partment. (Refer to 23 - BODY/SEATS/REAR SEAT -
REMOVAL).
(2) Remove the trim cover from the door sill.
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/DOOR SILL TRIM -
REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the screw that secures the lower seat
belt anchor plate to the quarter inner panel near the
base of the C-pillar (Fig. 23).
(4) Unsnap and lift the rear shoulder belt turning
loop cover to access the screw that secures the turn-
ing loop to the quarter inner panel near the top of
the C-pillar.(5) Remove the screw that secures the shoulder
belt turning loop to the quarter inner panel.
(6) Remove the trim from the quarter inner panel.
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/QUARTER TRIM
PANEL - REMOVAL).
(7) Disengage the rear seat shoulder belt turning
loop and lower seat belt anchor plate from the quar-
ter trim panel.
(8) Remove the screw that secures the retractor to
the quarter inner panel near the C-pillar.
(9) Remove the rear shoulder belt and retractor
from the quarter inner panel.
INSTALLATION
WARNING: DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT
BELT SERVICE, CAREFULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT
BELTS, BUCKLES, MOUNTING HARDWARE, AND
RETRACTORS FOR PROPER INSTALLATION,
OPERATION, OR DAMAGE. REPLACE ANY BELT
THAT IS CUT, FRAYED, OR TORN. STRAIGHTEN
ANY BELT THAT IS TWISTED. TIGHTEN ANY
LOOSE FASTENERS. REPLACE ANY BELT THAT
HAS A DAMAGED OR INOPERATIVE BUCKLE OR
RETRACTOR. REPLACE ANY BELT THAT HAS A
BENT OR DAMAGED LATCH PLATE OR ANCHOR
PLATE. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT BELT
COMPONENT. ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED OR
FAULTY SEAT BELT COMPONENTS WITH THE COR-
RECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENT PARTS
LISTED IN THE MOPAR PARTS CATALOG.
(1) Position the rear shoulder belt retractor onto
the quarter inner panel (Fig. 23).
Fig. 23 Rear Seat Belt & Retractor - Typical
1 - TURNING LOOP
2 - REAR SEAT BELT AND RETRACTOR
3 - QUARTER TRIM PANEL
8O - 26 RESTRAINTSBR/BE
PASSENGER AIRBAG ON/OFF SWITCH (Continued)

tem of the vehicle. These hard wired circuits are
integral to several wire harnesses, which are routed
throughout the vehicle and retained by many differ-
ent methods. These circuits may be connected to each
other, to the vehicle electrical system and to the
VTSS 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.
OPERATION
A Central Timer Module (CTM) is used on this
model to control and integrate many of the electronic
functions and features included in the Vehicle Theft
Security System (VTSS). In the VTSS, the CTM
receives inputs indicating the status of the door ajar
switches, the door cylinder lock switch, and the igni-
tion switch. The programming in the CTM allows it
to process the information from all of these inputs
and send control outputs to energize or de-energize
the horn relay, the headlamp relay, and the VTSS
indicator. The control of these inputs and outputs are
what constitute all of the features of the VTSS. Fol-
lowing is information on the operation of each of the
VTSS features. Refer to the owner's manual in the
vehicle glove box for more information on the fea-
tures, use and operation of the VTSS.
ENABLING
The high-line or premium version of the CTM must
have the VTSS function electronically enabled in
order for the VTSS to perform as designed. The logic
in the CTM keeps its VTSS function dormant until it
is enabled using a DRBIIIž scan tool. The VTSS
function of the high-line or premium CTM is enabled
on vehicles equipped with the VTSS option at the
factory, but a service replacement CTM must be
VTSS-enabled by the dealer using a DRBIIIž scan
tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
The VTSS engine no-run feature is disabled when
it is shipped from the factory. This is done by pro-
gramming within the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). The logic in the PCM prevents the VTSS
engine no-run feature from arming until the engine
start counter within the PCM sees twenty engine
starts. The VTSS no-run feature must be enabled by
the dealer when the vehicle is received from the
assembly plant. Once the VTSS engine no-run fea-
ture has been enabled, it cannot be disabled unless
the PCM is replaced with a new unit. The sameVTSS engine no-run feature enable logic will apply
anytime the PCM is replaced with a new unit.
ARMING
Passive arming of the VTSS occurs when the vehi-
cle is exited with the key removed from the ignition
switch, the headlamps are turned off, and the doors
are locked while they are open using the power lock
switch, or locked after they are closed by turning
either front door lock cylinder to the lock position
using the key. The power lock switch will not func-
tion if the key is in the ignition switch or the head-
lamps are turned on with the driver side front door
open. The VTSS will not arm if the doors are locked
using the mechanical lock button. Active arming of
the VTSS occurs when the ªLockº button on the
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter is
depressed to lock the vehicle. For active arming to
occur, the doors must be closed and the ignition
switch must be in the Off position when the RKE
transmitter ªLockº button is depressed. However,
once the VTSS arming process has been completed,
the ignition switch can be turned to the Accessory
position without triggering the alarm.
Once the VTSS begins passive or active arming,
the security indicator lamp in the overhead console
will flash rapidly for about fifteen seconds. This indi-
cates that the VTSS arming is in progress. Turning a
key in the ignition switch, opening a door, or unlock-
ing a door by any means during the fifteen second
arming process will cause the VTSS indicator to stop
flashing and the arming process to abort. Once the
fifteen second arming function is successfully com-
pleted, the indicator will flash at a slower rate, indi-
cating that the VTSS is armed.
DISARMING
Passive disarming of the VTSS occurs when the
vehicle is unlocked using the key to unlock either
front door. Active disarming of the VTSS occurs when
the vehicle is unlocked by depressing the ªUnlockº
button of the RKE transmitter. Once the alarm has
been activated (horn pulsing, headlamps flashing,
and the engine no-run feature), either disarming
method will also deactivate the alarm. Depressing
the ªPanicº button on the RKE transmitter willnot
disarm the VTSS.
POWER-UP MODE
When the armed VTSS senses that the battery has
been disconnected and reconnected, it enters its pow-
er-up mode. In the power-up mode the alarm system
remains armed following a battery failure or discon-
nect. If the VTSS was armed prior to a battery dis-
connect or failure, the technician or vehicle operator
will have to actively or passively disarm the alarm
system after the battery is reconnected. The pow-
8Q - 2 VEHICLE THEFT SECURITYBR/BE
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY (Continued)

REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Disconnect the headlamp and dash wire har-
ness connector for the washer pump/motor from the
motor connector receptacle (Fig. 3).
(3) Disconnect the washer hose from the barbed
outlet nipple of the washer pump/motor and allow
the washer fluid to drain into a clean container for
reuse.
(4) Using a trim stick or another suitable wide
flat-bladed tool, gently pry the barbed inlet nipple of
the washer pump out of the rubber grommet seal in
the reservoir. Care must be taken not to damage the
reservoir.
(5) Remove the rubber grommet seal from the
washer pump mounting hole in the washer reservoir
and discard.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install a new rubber grommet seal into the
washer pump mounting hole in the washer reservoir.
Always use a new rubber grommet seal on the reser-
voir.
(2) Position the barbed inlet nipple of the washer
pump to the rubber grommet seal in the reservoir.
(3) Press firmly and evenly on the washer pump
until the barbed inlet nipple is fully seated in the
rubber grommet seal in the washer reservoir mount-
ing hole.
(4) Reconnect the washer hose to the barbed outlet
nipple of the washer pump.(5) Reconnect the headlamp and dash wire harness
connector for the washer pump/motor unit to the
motor connector receptacle (Fig. 3).
(6) Refill the washer reservoir with the washer
fluid drained from the reservoir during the removal
procedure.
(7) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
WASHER RESERVOIR
DESCRIPTION
The molded plastic washer fluid reservoir is
secured with integral mounting tabs to keyed slots
on the left side of the radiator fan shroud in the left
front corner of the engine compartment. A bright yel-
low plastic filler cap with a rubber seal and an Inter-
national Control and Display Symbol icon for
ªWindshield Washerº and the text ªWasher Fluid
Onlyº molded into it snaps over the open end of the
filler neck. A bail strap that is integral to the cap
secures the cap to the reservoir filler neck when it is
removed for inspecting or adjusting the fluid level in
the reservoir. There are separate, dedicated holes on
the rear side of the reservoir provided for the mount-
ing of the washer/pump motor unit and the washer
fluid level switch.
The washer reservoir cannot be repaired and, if
faulty or damaged, it must be replaced. The washer
reservoir, the grommet seals for the washer pump/
motor unit and the washer fluid level switch, and the
filler cap are each available for service replacement.
OPERATION
The washer fluid reservoir provides a secure,
on-vehicle storage location for a large reserve of
washer fluid for operation of the washer system. The
washer reservoir filler neck provides a clearly
marked and readily accessible point from which to
add washer fluid to the reservoir. The washer/pump
motor unit is located in a sump area near the bottom
of the reservoir to be certain that washer fluid will
be available to the pump as the fluid level in the res-
ervoir becomes depleted. The washer fluid level
switch is mounted just above the sump area of the
reservoir so that there will be adequate warning to
the vehicle operator that the washer fluid level is
low, before the washer system will no longer operate.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Drain the engine cooling system. (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - DRAIN/
ALL EXCEPT DIESEL ENGINE) or (Refer to 7 -
Fig. 3 Washer Reservoir
1 - FAN SHROUD
2 - WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH
3 - WASHER PUMP/MOTOR
4 - WASHER RESERVOIR
8R - 10 WIPERS/WASHERSBR/BE
WASHER PUMP/MOTOR (Continued)

(2) Roll down the instrument panel from the dash
panel, but do not remove it from the vehicle. Refer to
Instrument Panel Assemblyin the index of this
service manual for the instrument panel assembly
removal procedures.
(3) Reach through the outboard side of the instru-
ment panel steering column opening to access and
disconnect all of the wire harness connectors from
the Junction Block (JB) connector receptacles (Fig.
6).
(4) Reach through the outboard side of the instru-
ment panel steering column opening to access and
remove the two screws that secure the JB to the left
instrument panel end bracket.
(5) Reach through the outboard side of the instru-
ment panel steering column opening to remove the
JB from the left instrument panel end bracket.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: If the Junction Block (JB) is being replaced
with a new unit, be certain to transfer each of the
fuses, circuit breakers and relays from the faulty JB
to the proper cavities of the replacement JB. Refer
to Junction Block in the index of this service man-
ual for the location of complete circuit diagrams
and cavity assignments for the JB.(1) Reach through the outboard side of the instru-
ment panel steering column opening to position the
JB onto the left instrument panel end bracket.
(2) Reach through the outboard side of the instru-
ment panel steering column opening to install and
tighten the two screws that secure the JB to the left
instrument panel end bracket. Tighten the screws to
2.85 N´m (25 in. lbs.).
(3) Reach through the outboard side of the instru-
ment panel steering column opening to access and
reconnect all of the wire harness connectors to the
JB connector receptacles.
(4) Install the instrument panel onto the dash
panel. Refer toInstrument Panel Assemblyin the
index of this service manual for the location of the
instrument panel assembly installation procedures.
(5) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
POWER DISTRIBUTION
CENTER
DESCRIPTION
All of the electrical current distributed throughout
this vehicle is directed through the standard equip-
ment Power Distribution Center (PDC) (Fig. 7). The
molded plastic PDC housing is located in the left
front corner of the engine compartment, just behind
the battery. The PDC houses the generator cartridge
fuse and up to twelve maxi-type cartridge fuses,
Fig. 6 Junction Block Remove/Install
1 - END BRACKET
2 - JUNCTION BLOCK
3 - SCREWS
Fig. 7 Power Distribution Center Location
1 - POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER
BR/BE8W-97 POWER DISTRIBUTION 8W - 97 - 7
JUNCTION BLOCK (Continued)

NOTE: If the PDC is being replaced with a new unit,
be certain to transfer each of the blade-type fuses,
cartridge fuses and relays from the faulty PDC to
the proper cavities of the replacement PDC. Refer
to Power Distribution in the index of this service
manual for the location of complete PDC circuit dia-
grams and cavity assignments.(1) Position the PDC and the headlamp and dash
wire harness unit in the engine compartment.
(2) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the PDC housing to the left front fender inner shield.
Tighten the screws to 8.4 N´m (75 in. lbs.).
(3) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
PDC housing to the left front fender wheel housing.
Tighten the screw to 2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(4) Install the eyelet of the battery positive cable
PDC take out onto the forward B(+) terminal stud in
the PDC.
(5) Install and tighten the nut that secures the
eyelet of the battery positive cable PDC take out to
the forward B(+) terminal stud in the PDC. Tighten
the nut to 8.4 N´m (75 in. lbs.).
(6) Install the eyelet of the battery negative cable
generator output take out onto the rearward B(+) ter-
minal stud in the PDC.
(7) Install and tighten the nut that secures the
eyelet of the battery negative cable generator output
take out to the rearward B(+) terminal stud in the
PDC. Tighten the nut to 75 in. lbs.
(8) Reconnect the engine wire harness in-line con-
nector to the PDC.
(9) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
engine wire harness in-line connector to the PDC.
Tighten the screw until a distinct audible click is
heard.
(10) Install and latch the cover onto the PDC.
(11) Engage each of the retainers that secure the
headlamp and dash wire harness to the vehicle body
and chassis components. Refer toConnector Loca-
tionsin the index of this service manual for the loca-
tion of more information on the headlamp and dash
wire harness retainer locations.
(12) Install all of the fasteners that secure each of
the headlamp and dash wire harness ground eyelets
to the vehicle body and chassis components. Refer to
Connector Locationsin the index of this service
manual for the location of more information on the
ground eyelet locations.
(13) Reconnect each of the headlamp and dash
wire harness connectors. Refer toConnector Loca-
tionsin the index of this service manual for the loca-
tion of more information on the headlamp and dash
wire harness connector locations.
(14) Reconnect the battery negative cable.POWER OUTLET
DESCRIPTION
An accessory power outlet is standard equipment
on this model. The power outlet is installed in the
instrument panel below the cigar lighter and next to
the ash receiver, which is located near the center of
Fig. 9 Battery and Generator Connections to PDC
1 - NUTS
2 - BATTERY POSITIVE CABLE
3 - BATTERY NEGATIVE CABLE
4 - POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER
5 - CABLE EYELETS
Fig. 10 Power Distribution Center
1 - FENDER INNER SHIELD
2 - INNER WHEEL HOUSE
3 - SCREW
4 - SCREW
5 - POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER
BR/BE8W-97 POWER DISTRIBUTION 8W - 97 - 9
POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER (Continued)

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTINGÐREAR SEAL AREA
LEAKS
Since it is sometimes difficult to determine the
source of an oil leak in the rear seal area of the
engine, a more involved inspection is necessary. The
following steps should be followed to help pinpoint
the source of the leak.
If the leakage occurs at the crankshaft rear oil seal
area:
(1) Disconnect the battery.
(2) Raise the vehicle.
(3) Remove torque converter or clutch housing
cover and inspect rear of block for evidence of oil.
Use a black light to check for the oil leak:
(a) Circular spray pattern generally indicates
seal leakage or crankshaft damage.
(b) Where leakage tends to run straight down,
possible causes are a porous block, distributor seal,
camshaft bore cup plugs, oil galley pipe plugs, oil
filter runoff, and main bearing cap to cylinder
block mating surfaces.
(4) If no leaks are detected, pressurized the crank-
case as outlined in (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/LUBRICA-
TION - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING)
CAUTION: Do not exceed 20.6 kPa (3 psi).
(5) If the leak is not detected, very slowly turn the
crankshaft and watch for leakage. If a leak is
detected between the crankshaft and seal while
slowly turning the crankshaft, it is possible the
crankshaft seal surface is damaged. The seal area on
the crankshaft could have minor nicks or scratches
that can be polished out with emery cloth.
CAUTION: Use extreme caution when crankshaft
polishing is necessary to remove minor nicks or
scratches. The crankshaft seal flange is specially
machined to complement the function of the rear oil
seal.
(6) For bubbles that remain steady with shaft
rotation, no further inspection can be done until dis-
assembled. Refer to the service DiagnosisÐMechani-
cal, under the Oil Leak row, for components
inspections on possible causes and corrections.
(7) After the oil leak root cause and appropriate
corrective action have been identified, (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE/ENGINE BLOCK/CRANKSHAFT OIL
SEAL - REAR - REMOVAL), for proper replacement
procedures.
STANDARD PROCEDUREÐCYLINDER BORE
HONING
Before honing, stuff plenty of clean shop towels
under the bores and over the crankshaft to keep
abrasive materials from entering the crankshaft
area.
(1) Used carefully, the Cylinder Bore Sizing Hone
C-823, equipped with 220 grit stones, is the best tool
for this job. In addition to deglazing, it will reduce
taper and out-of-round, as well as removing light
scuffing, scoring and scratches. Usually, a few strokes
will clean up a bore and maintain the required lim-
its.
CAUTION: DO NOT use rigid type hones to remove
cylinder wall glaze.
(2) Deglazing of the cylinder walls may be done if
the cylinder bore is straight and round. Use a cylin-
der surfacing hone, Honing Tool C-3501, equipped
with 280 grit stones (C-3501-3810). about 20-60
strokes, depending on the bore condition, will be suf-
ficient to provide a satisfactory surface. Using honing
oil C-3501-3880, or a light honing oil, available from
major oil distributors.
CAUTION: DO NOT use engine or transmission oil,
mineral spirits, or kerosene.
(3) Honing should be done by moving the hone up
and down fast enough to get a crosshatch pattern.
The hone marks should INTERSECT at 50É to 60É
for proper seating of rings (Fig. 3).
Fig. 3 Cylinder Bore Crosshatch Pattern
1 - CROSSHATCH PATTERN
2 - INTERSECT ANGLE
9 - 10 ENGINE 3.9LBR/BE
ENGINE 3.9L (Continued)