Description & Operation: Notes

WARNING: To avoid injury from accidental air bag deployment, read and carefully follow all WARNINGS and SERVICE PRECAUTIONS.

The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) is designed to provide increased accident protection for driver by deploying air bag in a front-end collision. Air bag, stored in center of steering wheel, deploys in approximately 40 milliseconds after impact sensors close. Air bag system is designed to be used with 3-point safety belts.

During a front-end collision, impact sensor internal balls are thrown forward. Balls complete an electrical circuit, which ignites inflator to deploy air bag. At least 2 sensors, one safing and one front impact, must activate simultaneously to inflate air bag.

SRS includes the following major components: diagnostic monitor, air bag module, air bag system readiness light (AIR BAG warning light), impact and safing sensors, ignitor assembly (in air bag module), clockspring, and associated wiring harnesses. See Fig 1 and Fig 2 .

Fig 1: Locating SRS Components (Econoline)

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Fig 2: Locating SRS Components (Aerostar)

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.