Removal & Installation: CLOCKSPRING: Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Mountaineer and 2004 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Before proceeding, see AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Clockspring is located on steering column between steering wheel and combination switch. Disable air bag system. See DISABLING SYSTEM under DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM.
- Ensure front wheels are in straight-ahead position. Remove air bag simulators from clockspring connectors. Remove steering wheel. See STEERING WHEEL . Remove steering column opening cover retaining screws and cover.
- Release retaining tabs and slide gear shift selector cover away from steering shrouds. From under steering column, remove 3 retaining screws and lower steering column shroud. Lift up on upper steering column shroud to release retaining clips. Rotate upper steering column shroud out of instrument cluster finish panel and remove shroud. Apply 2 strips of tape across clockspring assembly to prevent accidental rotation. See Figure .
- Remove combination switch retaining screw and release retaining tab. While holding retaining tab in released position, slide combination switch up and out of way. Remove clockspring retaining screws. See Figure . Disconnect clockspring electrical connectors and remove clockspring.
- Install Air Bag Simulator (418-F403) on harness side of clockspring connector. Connect negative battery cable. With air bag simulators installed at all deployable air bag system devices, perform system operation check. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK . Disconnect negative battery cable. Wait at least one minute.