Removal & Installation: CLOCKSPRING: Removal

1. Before proceeding, follow air bag service precautions. See SERVICE PRECAUTIONS  . Disable SRS. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM  .
2. Remove driver-side air bag module. See DRIVER-SIDE AIR BAG MODULE  . Ensure vehicle front wheels are in straight-ahead position, and steering column shaft alignment mark is at 12 o'clock position. Remove steering wheel. See STEERING WHEEL  .
3. Remove lower right and left moldings from instrument panel by pulling moldings upward and snapping them out of retainers. Remove instrument panel lower trim panel and steering column lower shroud.
4. Disconnect clockspring contact assembly wire harness. Apply 2 strips of tape across clockspring stator and rotor to prevent accidental rotation. See Fig 1 . Remove 3 clockspring retaining screws and pull clockspring off steering column shaft.

Fig 1: Installing Tape Strips On Clockspring Before Removal

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Service replacement clockspring will contain a Red plastic locking insert to prevent rotation. DO NOT remove insert until clockspring is securely installed on column.