Removal And Installation: Clockspring: Removal

WARNING: Always wear safety glasses when repairing an air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) vehicle and when handling an air bag module. This will reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accidental deployment.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of personal injury, do not use any memory saver devices.

NOTE: The air bag warning lamp illuminates when the RCM fuse is removed and the ignition switch is ON. This is normal operation and does not indicate a supplemental restraint system (SRS) fault.

NOTE: The SRS must be fully operational and free of faults before releasing the vehicle to the customer.

NOTE: Repair is made by installing a new part only. If the new part does not correct the condition, install the original part and carry out the diagnostic procedure again.

Depower the system. For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DEPOWERING AND REPOWERING in the General Procedures portion of this article.
Remove the driver air bag module. For additional information, refer to DRIVER AIR BAG MODULE in this article.
Remove the steering wheel. For additional information, refer to STEERING COLUMN .
Remove the 4 screws and pull outward to release the retaining clip and remove the instrument panel lower knee bolster.
Detach the steering column upper shroud from the steering column lower shroud.
- Using a thin-bladed screwdriver, release the 2 clips (one on each side).
  
  Fig 1: Releasing Clip Using Thin-Bladed Screwdriver
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
If equipped, detach the audio control switch from the steering column lower shroud.
- Using a thin-bladed screwdriver, release the locking tab.
  
  Fig 2: Releasing Locking Tab Using Thin-Bladed Screwdriver
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
If equipped, disconnect the electrical connector and remove the audio control switch.

Fig 3: Locating Electrical Connector
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Release the steering column locking lever and remove the 3 steering column lower shroud retaining screws, then remove the steering column lower shroud.
If installing the same clockspring, apply 2 strips of masking tape across the clockspring rotor to the outer housing to prevent accidental rotation when the clockspring is removed.
Detach the multi-function switches from the clockspring and position them aside.
- Depress the locking tabs and slide each switch upwards.
  
  Fig 4: Locating Locking Tabs
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the clockspring electrical connector.
CAUTION: Note the position of the spacing collar within the center of the clockspring.
Remove the clockspring.
- Release the locking tabs from the steering column.
  
  Fig 5: Releasing Locking Tabs From Steering Column
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.