horn DODGE RAM 2002 Service User Guide

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-
ary. The rotor of the clockspring, including the turn
signal cancel cam lobes rotate with the steering
wheel.
The turn signal cancel cam is serviced as a unit
with the clockspring and cannot be repaired. If faulty
or damaged, the entire clockspring unit must be
replaced. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
CLOCKSPRING - REMOVAL).
OPERATION
The turn signal cancel cam has two lobes molded
into the lower surface of the clockspring rotor. When
the turn signals are activated by moving the multi-
function switch control stalk to a detent position, a
turn signal cancel actuator is extended from the
inside surface of the multi-function switch housing
toward the center of the steering column and the
turn signal cancel cam. When the steering wheel is
rotated during a turning maneuver, one of the two
turn signal cancel cam lobes will contact the turn sig-
nal cancel actuator. The cancel actuator latches
against the cancel cam rotation in the direction oppo-
site that which is signaled. In other words, if the left
turn signal detent is selected, the lobes of the cancel
cam will ratchet past the cancel actuator when the
steering wheel is rotated to the left, but will unlatch
the cancel actuator as the steering wheel rotates to
the right and returns to center, which will cancel the
turn signal event and release the control stalk from
the detent so it returns to the neutral Off position.
UNDERHOOD LAMP
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Insert a small flat blade in the access slot
between the lamp base and lamp lens.
(3) Pry the lamp lens upward and remove the
lamp lens (Fig. 31).
(4) Depress the bulb terminal inward (Fig. 32) to
release the bulb.
Fig. 30 Tail, Brake, Turn Signal and Back-up Lamp
Bulb
1 - TAIL LAMP
2 - SCREW
3 - LIGHTING HARNESS
4 - BULB
5 - RETAINING CLIP
6 - RETAINING STUDS
Fig. 31 Underhood Lamp Lens
1 - LAMP
2 - LAMP LENS
BR/BELAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIOR 8L - 31
TAIL LAMP UNIT (Continued)

Both versions of the power lock system include the
following major components, which are described in
further detail elsewhere in this service manual:
²Power Lock Motors- A reversible electric
motor integral to the door latch of each front door
locks or unlocks the front door latch when provided
with the appropriate electrical inputs.
²Power Lock Switches- A power lock switch
integral to the power window/lock switch unit located
near the forward end of the arm rest on each front
door trim panel allows the power door lock system to
be operated by either the driver or the front seat pas-
senger.
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 connectorsand 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 CTM
hardware 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
8N - 2 POWER LOCKSBR/BE
POWER LOCKS (Continued)

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.
OPERATION
OPERATION - POWER LOCKS
All versions of the power lock system allow both
doors to be locked or unlocked electrically by operat-
ing the power lock switch on either front door trim
panel. On vehicles that are also equipped with the
optional Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system, both
doors may also be locked or unlocked using a key in
either front door lock cylinder, or by using the RKE
transmitter. On vehicles with the RKE system, if cer-
tain features have been electronically enabled, the
locks may also be operated automatically by the
high-line or premium Central Timer Module (CTM)
based upon various other inputs. Those features and
their inputs are:
²Automatic Door Lock- If enabled, the high-
line/premium CTM will automatically lock the doors
when it receives a message from the Powertrain Con-
trol Module (PCM) indicating that the vehicle speed
is about 24 kilometers-per-hour (15 miles-per-hour)
or greater. The CTM also monitors the door ajar
switches, and will not activate the automatic door
lock feature until both doors have been closed for at
least five seconds. If this feature is enabled and a
door is opened after the vehicle is moving, the CTM
will also lock the doors five seconds after both doors
are closed.
²Central Locking- Vehicles equipped with a
high-line/premium CTM also have a resistor-multi-
plexed door cylinder lock switch mounted to the back
of the door lock cylinder within each front door. The
CTM continually monitors the input from these
switches to provide the central locking/unlocking fea-
ture. The CTM will automatically lock or unlock both
front doors when either front door is locked or
unlocked using a key.
²Door Lock Inhibit- The high-line/premium
CTM receives inputs from the key-in ignition switch,the headlamp switch, and the door ajar switches. The
logic within the CTM allows it to monitor these
inputs to provide a door lock inhibit feature. The
door lock inhibit feature prevents the power lock sys-
tem from being energized with a power lock switch
input if the driver door is open with the headlamps
on or the key still in the ignition switch. However,
the locks can still be operated with the manual door
lock button or with a key in the door lock cylinder,
and the power locks will still operate using the RKE
transmitter while the driver door is open with the
headlamps on or a key in the ignition.
²Enhanced Accident Response- If enabled,
the high-line/premium CTM provides an enhanced
accident response feature. This feature uses elec-
tronic message inputs received by the CTM from the
Airbag Control Module (ACM) to determine when an
airbag has been deployed. The CTM also monitors
the state of the power lock system and the vehicle
speed messages from the PCM in order to provide
this feature. If the airbag has been deployed and the
vehicle has stopped moving, the CTM will automati-
cally unlock the doors, prevent the doors from being
locked, and turn on the courtesy lamps inside the
vehicle. Of course, these responses are dependent
upon a functional battery and electrical circuitry fol-
lowing the impact.
All versions of the power lock system operate 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. Also, in both versions of the power
lock system, each power lock switch receives battery
current independent of the other. In vehicles with the
base version of the power lock system, the driver side
power lock switch receives ground through the body
wire harness. A single wire take out of the body wire
harness with an eyelet terminal connector is secured
by a ground screw to the lower left B-pillar (regular
cab, extended cab) or lower left quarter inner panel
(quad cab). The passenger side power lock switch
receives ground through the driver side power lock
switch in the base version of the power lock system.
The base version power lock switches direct the
appropriate battery current and ground feeds to the
power lock motors. In the power lock system for vehi-
cles with the RKE system, the power lock switches
direct a battery current Lock or Unlock request sig-
nal to the high-line or premium CTM, and the CTM
energizes internal relays to direct the appropriate
battery current and ground feeds to the power lock
motors.
BR/BEPOWER LOCKS 8N - 3
POWER LOCKS (Continued)

OPERATION - REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY
SYSTEM
On vehicles with the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
system, the power locks can be operated remotely
using the RKE transmitter. If the vehicle is so
equipped, the RKE transmitter also arms and dis-
arms the factory-installed Vehicle Theft Security Sys-
tem (VTSS). Three small, recessed buttons on the
outside of the transmitter case labelled Lock, Unlock,
and Panic allow the user to choose the function that
is desired. The RKE transmitter then sends the
appropriate Radio Frequency (RF) signal. An RF
receiver that is integral to the high-line or premium
version of the Central Timer Module (CTM) receives
the transmitted signal, then uses its internal elec-
tronic programming to determine whether the
received signal is valid and what function has been
requested. If the signal is valid, the CTM provides
the programmed features.
Besides operating the power lock system and arm-
ing or disarming the VTSS, the RKE system also
controls the following features:
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 system 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 disconnected. If a transmitter is faulty
or is lost, new transmitter vehicle access codes can be
programmed into the system using a DRBIIItscan
tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
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, whichmeans it can be reprogrammed using Flash repro-
gramming 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
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 DRBIIIt
scan tool is required. Refer to the appropriate diag-
nostic information.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - POWER LOCKS
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 the
appropriate 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).
8N - 4 POWER LOCKSBR/BE
POWER LOCKS (Continued)

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 functional, that all of the electronic modules are
sending 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 KEYLESSENTRY TRANSMITTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TEST-
ING).
²If 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, proceed 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-
BR/BEPOWER LOCKS 8N - 5
POWER LOCKS (Continued)

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 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 theengaged 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 mounted
on 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
8O - 10 RESTRAINTSBR/BE
CHILD TETHER (Continued)

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).
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).
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 retainer
that is pushed onto the stud. The driver airbag can-
not 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
disassembled 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 driverairbag 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 -
ELECTRICAL/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. 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 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.
8O - 14 RESTRAINTSBR/BE

(2) From the underside of the steering wheel,
remove the two screws that secure the driver airbag
to the steering wheel armature (Fig. 10).
(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 SIDE AIRBAG MODULE
2 - HORN SWITCH FEED WIRE CONNECTOR3 - CLOCKSPRING WIRE HARNESS 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
DAIMLERCHRYSLER-TRAINED AND AUTHORIZED
DEALER SERVICE TECHNICIANS. FAILURE TO
TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS OR TO FOL-
LOW THE PROPER PROCEDURES COULD RESULT
IN ACCIDENTAL, INCOMPLETE, OR IMPROPER AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE OCCUPANT
INJURIES.
(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).
ASSEMBLY
The horn switch is integral to the driver airbag
trim cover. If either component is faulty or damaged,
Fig. 11 Driver Airbag Trim Cover Retainer Nuts
Remove/Install
1 - HORN SWITCH FEED WIRE
2 - HORN SWITCH GROUND 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)