key DODGE RAM 2003 Service Manual PDF
[x] Cancel search | Manufacturer: DODGE, Model Year: 2003, Model line: RAM, Model: DODGE RAM 2003Pages: 2895, PDF Size: 83.15 MB
Page 644 of 2895

WARNING: DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHOR SERVICE,
CAREFULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT BELTS, BUCKLES,
MOUNTING HARDWARE, RETRACTORS, TETHER
STRAPS, AND ANCHORS FOR PROPER INSTALLA-
TION, 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. REPLACE ANY CHILD
RESTRAINT ANCHOR OR THE UNIT TO WHICH THE
ANCHOR IS INTEGRAL THAT HAS BEEN BENT OR
DAMAGED. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENT.
ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED OR FAULTY SEAT
BELT AND CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENTS WITH
THE CORRECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENT
PARTS LISTED IN THE DAIMLERCHRYSLER MOPAR
PARTS CATALOG.
(1) Position the rear outboard seat belt and retrac-
tor to the retractor mounting hole in the lower inner
C-pillar (Fig. 39).
(2) Engage the hook on the upper retractor bracket
into the slot in the lower inner C-pillar above the
retractor mounting hole.
(3) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
lower retractor bracket to the lower inner C-pillar
below the retractor mounting hole. Tighten the screw
to 40 N´m (29 ft. lbs.).
(4) Position the seat belt web guide to the inner
C-pillar near the belt line.
(5) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
seat belt web guide to the inner C-pillar. Tighten the
screw to 2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(6) Reinstall the upper and lower trim onto the
inner C-pillar. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/C-
PILLAR UPPER TRIM - INSTALLATION) and
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/C-PILLAR LOWER
TRIM - INSTALLATION).
(7) Position the seat belt turning loop onto the
upper inner C-pillar.
(8) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
seat belt turning loop to the C-pillar. Tighten the
screw to 40 N´m (29 ft. lbs.).
(9) Engage the lower snap features of the new trim
cover over the rear outboard seat belt turning loop
and, using hand pressure, press firmly and evenly on
the top of the trim cover until it snaps into place.
(10) Position the lower seat belt anchor to the base
of the inner C-pillar.
(11) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
lower seat belt anchor to the base of the inner C-pil-
lar. Tighten the screw to 40 N´m (29 ft. lbs.).(12) Reinstall the rear seat into the vehicle. (Refer
to 23 - BODY/SEATS/SEAT - REAR - INSTALLA-
TION).
REAR SEAT BELT BUCKLE
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - CENTER & LEFT OUTBOARD
WARNING: DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHOR SERVICE,
CAREFULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT BELTS, BUCKLES,
MOUNTING HARDWARE, RETRACTORS, TETHER
STRAPS, AND ANCHORS FOR PROPER INSTALLA-
TION, 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. REPLACE ANY CHILD
RESTRAINT ANCHOR OR THE UNIT TO WHICH THE
ANCHOR IS INTEGRAL THAT HAS BEEN BENT OR
DAMAGED. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENT.
ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED OR FAULTY SEAT
BELT AND CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENTS WITH
THE CORRECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENT
PARTS LISTED IN THE DAIMLERCHRYSLER MOPAR
PARTS CATALOG.
(1) Lift up the rear seat cushion into its stowed
position against the rear seat back.
(2) Remove the screw that secures either the cen-
ter or the left outboard occupant buckle unit to the
rear floor panel near the base of the cab back panel
(Fig. 40). On models with the optional 60/40 split
rear bench, the screw that secures the buckle unit
also secures one of the rear seat mounting brackets
to the rear floor panel.
(3) Remove the center or the left outboard occu-
pant buckle unit from the rear floor panel or from
the rear seat mounting bracket.
REMOVAL - CENTER ANCHOR & RIGHT
OUTBOARD
The unique black, keyed center seat belt lower
anchor buckle and the right outboard occupant
buckle are serviced as a unit with their mounting
bracket. The rear center seat belt retractor is also
secured to the mounting bracket with these two
buckles, but can be removed from the mounting
bracket and is serviced separately from the two buck-
DRRESTRAINTS 8O - 43
REAR OUTBOARD SEAT BELT & RETRACTOR (Continued)
Page 645 of 2895

les. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/REAR
CENTER SEAT BELT & RETRACTOR - REMOVAL).
WARNING: DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHOR SERVICE,
CAREFULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT BELTS, BUCKLES,
MOUNTING HARDWARE, RETRACTORS, TETHER
STRAPS, AND ANCHORS FOR PROPER INSTALLA-
TION, 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. REPLACE ANY CHILD
RESTRAINT ANCHOR OR THE UNIT TO WHICH THE
ANCHOR IS INTEGRAL THAT HAS BEEN BENT OR
DAMAGED. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENT.
ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED OR FAULTY SEAT
BELT AND CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENTS WITH
THE CORRECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENTPARTS LISTED IN THE DAIMLERCHRYSLER MOPAR
PARTS CATALOG.
(1) Reach between the rear seat cushion and the
rear seat back to access and unbuckle the rear center
seat belt lower anchor latch plate from the unique
black, keyed lower anchor buckle. Use an ignition
key or a small screwdriver to depress the small white
release button on the anchor buckle.
(2) Remove the rear seat from the vehicle. On
models with the optional 60/40 split rear bench, only
the 60 percent section (right side) of the rear seat
must be removed. (Refer to 23 - BODY/SEATS/SEAT
- REAR - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the screw that secures the rear center
seat belt retractor to the center anchor/right out-
board occupant buckle and mounting bracket unit on
the rear floor panel near the cab back panel (Fig. 41).
(4) Remove the rear center seat belt retractor from
the center anchor/right outboard occupant buckle and
mounting bracket unit.
(5) Remove the two screws that secure the center
anchor/right outboard occupant buckle and mounting
bracket unit to the rear floor panel near the base of
the cab back panel (Fig. 42).
Fig. 40 Rear Seat Belt Buckle Remove/Install
1 - CAB BACK PANEL
2 - CENTER SEAT BELT RETRACTOR
3 - SCREW (4)
4 - LEFT OUTBOARD OCCUPANT BUCKLE UNIT
5 - CENTER OCCUPANT BUCKLE UNIT
6 - CENTER ANCHOR/RIGHT OUTBOARD OCCUPANT BUCKLE
& BRACKET UNIT
7 - REAR FLOOR PANEL
Fig. 41 Rear Center Retractor & Mounting Bracket
1 - RIGHT OUTBOARD OCCUPANT BUCKLE
2 - REAR CENTER SEAT BELT
3 - REAR CENTER SEAT BELT RETRACTOR
4 - MOUNTING BRACKET
5 - CENTER ANCHOR BUCKLE
6 - SCREW (1)
8O - 44 RESTRAINTSDR
REAR SEAT BELT BUCKLE (Continued)
Page 646 of 2895

(6) Remove the center anchor/right outboard occu-
pant buckle and mounting bracket unit from the rear
floor panel.
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - CENTER & LEFT OUTBOARD
WARNING: DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHOR SERVICE,
CAREFULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT BELTS, BUCKLES,
MOUNTING HARDWARE, RETRACTORS, TETHERSTRAPS, AND ANCHORS FOR PROPER INSTALLA-
TION, 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. REPLACE ANY CHILD
RESTRAINT ANCHOR OR THE UNIT TO WHICH THE
ANCHOR IS INTEGRAL THAT HAS BEEN BENT OR
DAMAGED. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENT.
ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED OR FAULTY SEAT
BELT AND CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENTS WITH
THE CORRECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENT
PARTS LISTED IN THE DAIMLERCHRYSLER MOPAR
PARTS CATALOG.
(1) Position the center or the left outboard occu-
pant buckle unit onto the rear floor panel or onto the
rear seat mounting bracket near the base of the cab
back panel (Fig. 40). On models with the optional
60/40 split rear bench, the screw that secures the
buckle unit also secures one of the rear seat mount-
ing brackets to the rear floor panel.
(2) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
center or the left outboard occupant buckle unit to
the rear floor panel. Tighten the screw to 40 N´m (29
ft. lbs.).
(3) Lower the rear seat cushion back to its normal
seating position.
INSTALLATION - CENTER ANCHOR & RIGHT
OUTBOARD
The unique black, keyed center seat belt lower
anchor buckle and the right outboard occupant
buckle are serviced as a unit with their mounting
bracket. The rear center seat belt retractor is also
secured to the mounting bracket with these two
buckles, but can be removed from the mounting
bracket and is serviced separately from the two buck-
les. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/REAR
CENTER SEAT BELT & RETRACTOR - INSTALLA-
TION).
Fig. 42 Rear Seat Belt Buckle Remove/Install
1 - CAB BACK PANEL
2 - CENTER SEAT BELT RETRACTOR
3 - SCREW (4)
4 - LEFT OUTBOARD OCCUPANT BUCKLE UNIT
5 - CENTER OCCUPANT BUCKLE UNIT
6 - CENTER ANCHOR/RIGHT OUTBOARD OCCUPANT BUCKLE
& BRACKET UNIT
7 - REAR FLOOR PANEL
DRRESTRAINTS 8O - 45
REAR SEAT BELT BUCKLE (Continued)
Page 647 of 2895

WARNING: DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHOR SERVICE,
CAREFULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT BELTS, BUCKLES,
MOUNTING HARDWARE, RETRACTORS, TETHER
STRAPS, AND ANCHORS FOR PROPER INSTALLA-
TION, 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. REPLACE ANY CHILD
RESTRAINT ANCHOR OR THE UNIT TO WHICH THE
ANCHOR IS INTEGRAL THAT HAS BEEN BENT OR
DAMAGED. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENT.
ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED OR FAULTY SEAT
BELT AND CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENTS WITH
THE CORRECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENT
PARTS LISTED IN THE DAIMLERCHRYSLER MOPAR
PARTS CATALOG.
(1) Position the center anchor/right outboard occu-
pant buckle and mounting bracket unit onto the rear
floor panel near the base of the cab back panel (Fig.
42).
(2) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the center anchor/right outboard occupant buckle and
mounting bracket unit to the rear floor panel.
Tighten the screws to 40 N´m (29 ft. lbs.).
(3) Position the rear center seat belt retractor onto
the center anchor/right outboard occupant buckle and
mounting bracket unit (Fig. 41).
(4)
Install and tighten the screw that secures the
rear center seat belt retractor to the center anchor/
right outboard occupant buckle and mounting bracket
unit. Tighten the screw to 40 N´m (29 ft. lbs.).
(5) Reinstall the rear seat into the vehicle. On
models with the optional 60/40 split rear bench, only
the 60 percent section (right side) of the rear seat
must be reinstalled. (Refer to 23 - BODY/SEATS/
SEAT - REAR - INSTALLATION).
(6) Reach between the rear seat cushion and the
rear seat back to access and buckle the rear center
seat belt lower anchor latch plate to the unique
black, keyed lower anchor buckle.
SEAT BELT SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
The seat belt switch is a small, normally open, sin-
gle pole, single throw, leaf contact, momentary
switch. Only one seat belt switch is installed in the
vehicle, and it is integral to the buckle of the driver
side front seat belt buckle-half, located on theinboard side of the driver side front seat track (Fig.
43). The seat belt switch is connected to the vehicle
electrical system through a two-wire pigtail wire and
connector on the seat belt buckle-half, which is con-
nected to a wire harness connector and take out of
the seat wire harness routed beneath the driver side
front seat cushion in the passenger compartment.
The seat belt switch cannot be adjusted or repaired
and, if faulty or damaged, the entire driver side front
seat belt buckle-half unit must be replaced.
OPERATION
The seat belt switch is designed to control a path
to ground for the seat belt switch sense input of the
ElectroMechanical Instrument Cluster (EMIC). When
the driver side front seat belt tip-half is inserted into
the seat belt buckle, the switch closes the path to
ground; and, when the driver side front seat belt tip-
half is removed from the seat belt buckle, the switch
opens the ground path. The switch is actuated by the
latch mechanism within the seat belt buckle.
The seat belt switch is connected in series between
ground and the seat belt switch sense input of the
instrument cluster. The seat belt switch receives
ground at all times through its pigtail wire connec-
tion to the seat wire harness from a take out of the
body wire harness. An eyelet terminal connector on
the body wire harness ground take out is secured
beneath a ground screw on the left cowl side inner
panel, beneath the instrument panel. The seat belt
switch may de diagnosed using conventional diagnos-
tic tools and methods.
Fig. 43 Seat Belt Switch
1 - DRIVER SIDE FRONT OUTBOARD SEAT BELT BUCKLE
2 - SEAT CUSHION
3 - PIGTAIL WIRE
4 - INBOARD SEAT TRACK
5 - SCREW
8O - 46 RESTRAINTSDR
REAR SEAT BELT BUCKLE (Continued)
Page 648 of 2895

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - SEAT BELT
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.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, SEAT BELT TENSIONER,
SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCON-
NECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE
(GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR
THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE
PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO
TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Disconnect the seat belt switch pigtail wire
connector from the seat wire harness connector for
the seat belt switch on the inboard side of the driver
side front seat forward of the seat belt buckle-half
anchor. Check for continuity between the seat belt
switch sense circuit and the ground circuit cavities of
the seat belt switch pigtail wire connector. There
should be continuity with the seat belt buckled, and
no continuity with the seat belt unbuckled. If OK, go
to Step 2. If not OK, replace the faulty front seat belt
buckle-half assembly.
(2) Check for continuity between the ground cir-
cuit cavity in the seat wire harness connector for the
seat belt switch and a good ground. There should be
continuity. If OK, go to Step 3. If not OK, repair the
open ground circuit to ground (G301) as required.
(3) Remove the instrument cluster from the instru-
ment panel. Check for continuity between the seat
belt switch sense circuit cavity of the seat wire har-
ness connector for the seat belt switch and a good
ground. There should be no continuity. If OK, go to
Step 4. If not OK, repair the shorted seat belt switch
sense circuit between the seat belt switch and the
instrument cluster as required.
(4) Check for continuity between the seat belt
switch sense circuit cavities of the seat wire harness
connector for the seat belt switch and the instrument
panel wire harness connector (Connector C2) for the
instrument cluster. There should be continuity. IfOK, test and replace the faulty instrument cluster as
required. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT
CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). If not OK,
repair the open seat belt switch sense circuit between
the seat belt switch and the instrument cluster as
required.
SEAT BELT TENSIONER
DESCRIPTION
Front outboard seating position seat belt tension-
ers supplement the driver and passenger airbags for
all versions of this model (Fig. 44). The seat belt ten-
sioner is integral to the front outboard seat belt and
retractor unit, which is secured to the inner B-pillar
on the right and left sides of the vehicle. The retrac-
tor is concealed beneath the molded plastic inner
B-pillar trim. The seat belt tensioner consists prima-
rily of a die cast aluminum tensioner housing or
chamber, a mechanical clutch unit, a tape-like metal
strip, a pair of cutters, a pyrotechnically activated
gas generator, and a short pigtail wire. All of these
components are located on one side of the retractor
spool on the outside of the retractor housing. The
seat belt tensioner is controlled by the Airbag Control
Module (ACM) and is connected to the vehicle elec-
trical system through a dedicated take out of the
body wire harness by a keyed and latching molded
plastic connector insulator to ensure a secure connec-
tion.
Fig. 44 Seat Belt Tensioner
1 - TENSIONER HOUSING OR CHAMBER
2 - GAS GENERATOR
3 - TENSIONER PIGTAIL WIRE
4 - SPOOL
5 - TENSION REDUCER (DRIVER SIDE ON STANDARD CAB
ONLY)
6 - REDUCER CONNECTOR RECEPTACLE
7 - RETRACTOR LOCKING MECHANISM COVER
DRRESTRAINTS 8O - 47
SEAT BELT SWITCH (Continued)
Page 649 of 2895

The seat belt tensioner cannot be repaired and, if
faulty or damaged, the entire outboard front seat belt
and retractor unit must be replaced. If the front air-
bags have been deployed, the seat belt tensioners
have also been deployed. The seat belt tensioner is
not intended for reuse and must be replaced follow-
ing a deployment. A locked retractor that will not
allow the seat belt webbing to be retracted or
extracted is a sure indication that the seat belt ten-
sioner has been deployed and requires replacement.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/FRONT
OUTBOARD SEAT BELT & RETRACTOR - REMOV-
AL).
OPERATION
The seat belt tensioners are deployed by a signal
generated by the Airbag Control Module (ACM)
through the driver and passenger seat belt tensioner
line 1 and line 2 (or squib) circuits. When the ACM
sends the proper electrical signal to the tensioners,
the electrical energy generates enough heat to ini-
tiate a small pyrotechnic gas generator. The gas gen-
erator is installed at the top of the tensioner housing
which contains a long metal tape that is routed
through two chambers within the housing. Each end
of the tape is wound around the outer sleeve of a
mechanical clutch mechanism secured to one end of
the torsion bar upon which the retractor spool is
secured. As the gas expands, it is directed against
the metal tape within the two chambers of the hous-
ing causing the tape to unwind from the clutch
sleeve. As the clutch rotates it engages the torsion
bar, which drives the seat belt retractor spool causing
the slack to be removed from the seat belt.
Once a seat belt tensioning sequence has been
completed, the forward momentum of the occupant
results in deformation of the torsion bar. As the tor-
sion bar deforms it allows the seat belt webbing to
unwind from the retractor spool, which causes the
metal tape to be wound back onto the clutch sleeve
until it is pulled tight against two cutter blades
within the housing, which immediately cut the metal
tape.
Removing excess slack from the seat belt not only
keeps the occupant properly positioned for an airbag
deployment following a frontal impact of the vehicle,
but also helps to reduce injuries that the occupant
might experience in these situations as a result of a
harmful contact with the steering wheel, steering col-
umn, instrument panel and/or windshield. The tor-
sion bar is designed to deform in order to control the
loading being applied to the occupant by the seat belt
during a frontal impact, further reducing the poten-
tial for occupant injuries.
The ACM monitors the condition of the seat belt
tensioners through circuit resistance. The ACM willilluminate the airbag indicator in the ElectroMe-
chanical Instrument Cluster (EMIC) and store a
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for any fault that is
detected. For proper diagnosis of the seat belt ten-
sioners, a DRBIIItscan tool is required. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
SEAT BELT TENSION
REDUCER
DESCRIPTION
A seat belt tension reducer is standard equipment
for the driver side front outboard seat belt on stan-
dard cab versions of this model (Fig. 45). The tension
reducer is integral to the driver side front outboard
seat belt and retractor unit, which is secured to the
inner B-pillar on the left side of the vehicle. The
retractor is concealed beneath the molded plastic
inner B-pillar trim. The seat belt tension reducer
consists primarily of a 12-volt Direct Current (DC)
solenoid and an integral connector receptacle that is
located on the forward facing end housing of the
retractor. The seat belt tension reducer is controlled
by a battery current output of the ignition switch and
a ground path provided by the seat belt switch, and
is connected to the vehicle electrical system through
a dedicated take out of the body wire harness by a
keyed and latching molded plastic connector insula-
tor to ensure a secure connection.
The seat belt tension reducer cannot be repaired
and, if faulty or damaged, the entire driver side front
Fig. 45 Seat Belt Tension Reducer
1 - TENSIONER HOUSING OR CHAMBER
2 - GAS GENERATOR
3 - TENSIONER PIGTAIL WIRE
4 - SPOOL
5 - TENSION REDUCER (DRIVER SIDE ON STANDARD CAB
ONLY)
6 - REDUCER CONNECTOR RECEPTACLE
8O - 48 RESTRAINTSDR
SEAT BELT TENSIONER (Continued)
Page 652 of 2895

(6) Position the seat belt turning loop onto the
height adjuster on the upper inner B-pillar.
(7) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
seat belt turning loop to the height adjuster. Tighten
the screw to 40 N´m (29 ft. lbs.).
(8) Engage the lower snap features of the new trim
cover over the front outboard seat belt turning loop
and, using hand pressure, press firmly and evenly on
the top of the trim cover until it snaps into place.
SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG
DESCRIPTION
Optional side curtain airbags are available for this
model when it is also equipped with dual front air-
bags. These airbags are passive, inflatable, Supple-
mental Restraint System (SRS) components, and
vehicles with this equipment can be readily identified
by a molded identification trim button with the ªSRS
- AIRBAGº logo located on the headliner above each
A-pillar, and above each B-pillar on quad cab models
(Fig. 47). This system is designed to reduce injuries
to the vehicle occupants in the event of a side impact
collision.
Vehicles equipped with side curtain airbags have
two individually controlled curtain airbag units.
These airbag units are concealed and mounted above
the headliner where they are each secured to one of
the roof side rails (Fig. 48). Each folded airbag cush-
ion is contained within a long extruded plastic chan-
nel that extends along the roof rail from the A-pillar
at the front of the vehicle to just behind the B-pillar
on standard cab models, and to just behind the C-pil-
lar on quad cab models. A tether extends down the
A-pillar from the front of the airbag cushion, where it
is retained to the pillar with plastic push-in routing
clips and it is secured to the base of the A-pillar near
the belt line with a screw.The hybrid-type inflator for each airbag is secured
to the roof rail at the rear of the airbag unit behind
the B-pillar (standard cab) or C-pillar (quad cab), and
is connected to the airbag cushion by a long tubular
manifold. The inflator bracket and the airbag cushion
channel are located with plastic push-in fasteners to
the roof rail, then secured with screws to spring nuts
located in the roof rail. A two-wire take out of the
body wire harness with a keyed and latched connec-
tor insulator connects directly to an integral recepta-
cle on the inflator initiator.
The side curtain airbag unit cannot be adjusted or
repaired and must be replaced if deployed, faulty, or
in any way damaged. Once a side curtain airbag has
been deployed, the complete airbag unit, the head-
liner, the upper A, B, and C-pillar trim, and all other
visibly damaged components must be replaced.
OPERATION
Each side curtain airbag is deployed individually
by an electrical signal generated by the left or right
Side Impact Airbag Control Module (SIACM) to
which it is connected through left or right curtain
airbag line 1 and line 2 (or squib) circuits. The
hybrid-type inflator assembly for each airbag con-
tains a small canister of highly compressed inert gas.
When the SIACM sends the proper electrical signal
to the airbag inflator, the electrical energy creates
enough heat to ignite chemical pellets within the
inflator. Once ignited, these chemicals burn rapidly
and produce the pressure necessary to rupture a con-
tainment disk in the inert gas canister. The inflator
Fig. 47 SRS Logo
Fig. 48 Side Curtain Airbag
1 - WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
2 - B-PILLAR (STD CAB) OR C-PILLAR (QUAD CAB)
3 - INFLATOR
4 - MANIFOLD
5 - ROOF SIDE RAIL
6 - A-PILLAR
7 - TETHER
8 - CHANNEL
DRRESTRAINTS 8O - 51
SEAT BELT TURNING LOOP ADJUSTER (Continued)
Page 670 of 2895

VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION........................1
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM (SKIS) . 1
DESCRIPTION........................1
OPERATION
OPERATION..........................2
OPERATION..........................2
OPERATION..........................2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY SYSTEM......3STANDARD PROCEDURE
CONFIGURING A NEW MODULE / SWITCH
OPERATING MODES....................3
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
INITIALIZATION........................3
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
TRANSPONDER PROGRAMMING..........4
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
INDICATOR LAMP
DESCRIPTION..........................5
OPERATION............................5
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION
The Vehicle Theft/Security System (VTSS) is
designed to protect against whole vehicle theft. The
system monitors the vehicle doors and ignition for
unauthorized operation.
The VTSS activates:
²Sounding of the horn
²Flashing of the park lamps
²Flashing of the head lamps
The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) has 1 mode of
operation,CUSTOMER USAGEmode. The cus-
tomer usage mode provides full functionality of the
module and is the mode in which the RKE module
should be operating when used by the customer.
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM (SKIS)
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) is
designed to provide passive protection against unau-
thorized vehicle use by preventing the engine from
operating while the system is armed. The primary
components of this system are the Sentry Key Immo-
bilizer Module (SKIM), the Sentry Key transponder,
the Vehicle Theft/Security System (VTSS) indicator
LED, and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
The SKIM is installed on the steering column near
the ignition lock cylinder. The transponder is located
under the molded rubber cap on the head of the igni-tion key. The VTSS indicator LED is located in the
instrument cluster.
The SKIS includes two valid Sentry Key transpon-
ders from the factory. This is so the customer can self
program new keys if one is lost. If the customer
wishes, additional non-coded blank Sentry Keys are
available. These blank keys can be cut to match a
valid ignition key, but the engine will not start
unless the key transponder is also programmed to
the vehicle. The SKIS will recognize no more than
eight valid Sentry Key transponders at any one time.
The SKIS performs a self-test each time the igni-
tion switch is turned to the ON position, and will
store Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) if a system
malfunction is detected. The SKIS can be diagnosed,
and any stored DTC can be retrieved using a
DRBIIItscan tool as described in the proper Body
Diagnostic Procedures Manual.
DESCRIPTION
The Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) con-
tains a Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver and a cen-
tral processing unit, which includes the Sentry Key
Immobilizer System (SKIS) program logic. The SKIS
programming enables the SKIM to program and
retain in memory the codes of at least two, but no
more than eight electronically coded Sentry Key
transponders. The SKIS programming also enables
the SKIM to communicate over the Programmable
Communication Interface (PCI) bus network with the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM), and/or the
DRBIIItscan tool.
DRVEHICLE THEFT SECURITY 8Q - 1
Page 671 of 2895

OPERATION
OPERATION
When in theCustomer Usagemode of operation,
the system is armed when the vehicle is locked using
the:
²Power Door Lock Switches
²Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) Transmitter
²Key Cylinder Switches
After the vehicle is locked and the last door is
closed, the VTSS indicator in the instrument cluster
will flash quickly for 16 seconds, indicating that the
arming is in process. After 16 seconds, the LED will
continue to flash at a slower rate indicating that the
system is armed.
VTSS disarming occurs upon normal vehicle entry
by unlocking either door via the key cylinder or RKE
transmitter, or by starting the vehicle with a valid
Sentry Key. This disarming will also halt the alarm
once it has been activated.
A tamper alert exists to notify the driver that the
system has been activated. This alert consists of 3
horn pulses and the security telltail flashing for 30
seconds when the vehicle is disarmed. The tamper
alert will not occur if disarmed while alarming.
The VTSS will not arm by mechanically locking the
vehicle doors. This will manually override the sys-
tem.
OPERATION
The SKIS includes two valid Sentry Key transpon-
ders from the factory. These two Sentry Keys can be
used to program additional non-coded blank Sentry
Keys. These blank keys can be cut to match a valid
ignition key, but the engine will not start unless the
key transponder is also programmed to the vehicle.
The SKIS will recognize no more than eight valid
Sentry Key transponders at any one time.
The SKIS performs a self-test each time the igni-
tion switch is turned to the ON position, and will
store Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) if a system
malfunction is detected. The SKIS can be diagnosed,
and any stored DTC can be retrieved using a
DRBIIItscan tool as described in the proper Power-
train Diagnostic Procedures manual.
OPERATION
The SKIM transmits and receives RF signals
through a tuned antenna enclosed within a molded
plastic ring formation that is integral to the SKIM
housing. When the SKIM is properly installed on the
steering column, the antenna ring is oriented around
the circumference of the ignition lock cylinder hous-
ing. This antenna ring must be located within eight
millimeters (0.31 inches) of the Sentry Key in orderto ensure proper RF communication between the
SKIM and the Sentry Key transponder.
For added system security, each SKIM is pro-
grammed with a unique ªSecret Keyº code and a
security code. The SKIM keeps the ªSecret Keyº code
in memory. The SKIM also sends the ªSecret Keyº
code to each of the programmed Sentry Key tran-
sponders. The security code is used by the assembly
plant to access the SKIS for initialization, or by the
dealer technician to access the system for service.
The SKIM also stores in its memory the Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN), which it learns through
a PCI bus message from the PCM during initializa-
tion.
The SKIM and the PCM both use software that
includes a rolling code algorithm strategy, which
helps to reduce the possibility of unauthorized SKIS
disarming. The rolling code algorithm ensures secu-
rity by preventing an override of the SKIS through
the unauthorized substitution of the SKIM or the
PCM. However, the use of this strategy also means
that replacement of either the SKIM or the PCM
units will require a system initialization procedure to
restore system operation.
When the ignition switch is turned to the ON or
START positions, the SKIM transmits an RF signal
to excite the Sentry Key transponder. The SKIM then
listens for a return RF signal from the transponder
of the Sentry Key that is inserted in the ignition lock
cylinder. If the SKIM receives an RF signal with
valid ªSecret Keyº and transponder identification
codes, the SKIM sends a ªvalid keyº message to the
PCM over the PCI bus. If the SKIM receives an
invalid RF signal or no response, it sends ªinvalid
keyº messages to the PCM. The PCM will enable or
disable engine operation based upon the status of the
SKIM messages.
The SKIM also sends messages to the Instrument
Cluster which controls the VTSS indicator. The
SKIM sends messages to the Instrument Cluster to
turn the indicator on for about three seconds when
the ignition switch is turned to the ON position as a
ªbulbº test. After completion of the ªbulbº test, the
SKIM sends bus messages to keep the indicator off
for a duration of about one second. Then the SKIM
sends messages to turn the indicator on or off based
upon the results of the SKIS self-tests. If the VTSS
indicator comes on and stays on after the ªbulb testº,
it indicates that the SKIM has detected a system
malfunction and/or that the SKIS has become inoper-
ative.
If the SKIM detects an invalid key when the igni-
tion switch is turned to the ON position, it sends
messages to flash the VTSS indicator. The SKIM can
also send messages to flash the indicator to serve as
an indication to the customer that the SKIS has been
8Q - 2 VEHICLE THEFT SECURITYDR
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY (Continued)
Page 672 of 2895

placed in its ªCustomer Learnº programming mode.
See Sentry Key Immobilizer System Transponder
Programming in this section for more information on
the ªCustomer Learnº programming mode.
For diagnosis or initialization of the SKIM and the
PCM, a DRBIIItscan tool and the proper Powertrain
Diagnostic Procedures manual are required. The
SKIM cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged,
the unit must be replaced.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY SYSTEM
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, REFER TO RESTRAINT SYSTEMS BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
NOTE: The most reliable, efficient, and accurate
means to diagnose the Vehicle Theft Security Sys-
tem (VTSS) and Sentry Key Immobilizer System
(SKIS) involves the use of a DRBlllTscan tool and
the proper Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures man-
ual.
The Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS), Sentry
Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) and the Programma-
ble Communication Interface (PCI) bus network
should be diagnosed using a DRBIIItscan tool. The
DRBIIItwill allow confirmation that the PCI bus is
functional, that the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module
(SKIM) is placing the proper messages on the PCI
bus, and that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
and the Instrument Cluster are receiving the PCI
bus messages. Refer to the proper Powertrain or
Body Diagnostic Procedures manual.
Visually inspect the related wiring harness connec-
tors. Look for broken, bent, pushed out or corroded
terminals. If any of the conditions are present, repair
as necessary. Refer to Wiring Diagrams for complete
circuit descriptions and diagrams. Refer to (Refer to
8 - ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL MOD-
ULES/SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE -
REMOVAL) for SKIM replacement.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
CONFIGURING A NEW MODULE / SWITCH
OPERATING MODES
To configure a new module or to switch operating
modes, a DRBIIItscan tool must be used.
(1) Hook up the DRBIIItscan tool to the Data
Link Connector (DLC).
(2) With the key in the ignition, turn the key to
the RUN position.
(3) After the DRBIIItscan tool initialization, per-
form the following:
(a) Select ªTheft Alarm.º
(b) Select ªVTSS.º
(c) Select ªMiscellaneous.º
(4) Once in the ªMiscellaneousº screen:
(a) If you wish to configure a new module, select
ªConfigure Module.º
(b) If you wish to put the module into customer
usage mode, select ªEnable VTSS.º
(c) If you wish to put the module into dealer lot
mode, select ªDealer Lot.º
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
INITIALIZATION
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) initial-
ization should be performed following a Sentry Key
Immobilizer Module (SKIM) replacement.
It can be summarized by the following:
(1) Obtain the vehicles unique PIN number
assigned to it's original SKIM from the vehicle
owner, the vehicle's invoice or from Chrysler's Cus-
tomer Center.
(2) With the DRBIIItscan tool, select ªTheft
Alarm,º ªSKIM,º Miscellaneous.º Select ªSKIM Mod-
ule Replacedº function and the DRBIIItwill prompt
you through the following steps.
(3) Enter secured access mode using the unique
four digit PIN number.
(4) Program the vehicle's VIN number into the
SKIM's memory.
(5) Program the country code into the SKIM's
memory (U.S.).
(6) Transfer the vehicle's unique Secret Key data
from the PCM. This process will require the SKIM to
be insecured access mode. The PIN number must
be entered into the DRBIIItbefore the SKIM will
entersecured access mode. Oncesecured access
modeis active, the SKIM will remain in that mode
for 60 seconds.
(7) Program all customer keys into the SKIM's
memory. This required that the SKIM be insecured
access modeThe SKIM will immediately exit
secured access modeafter each key is pro-
grammed.
DRVEHICLE THEFT SECURITY 8Q - 3
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY (Continued)