Restraints Control Module (RCM): Installation

WARNING: A new RCM must be configured following installation. Failure to follow this instruction may result in personal injury.

WARNING: The tightening torque of the air bag RCM retaining bolts is critical for correct system operation.

Install the RCM and the 3 bolts.
- Tighten to 11 Nm (8 lb-ft).
Connect the small RCM electrical connector.
Make sure the large RCM electrical connector position assurance lever is in the FULL RELEASE position before attempting to connect the connector.

Fig 1: Locating Large RCM Electrical Connector Position Assurance Lever
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: Placing the large RCM electrical wiring connector into the RCM at an angle can cause bad electrical connections and damage components.
Position the large RCM electrical wiring connector into the RCM.
CAUTION: Do not push the connector to where the lever pivots and seats itself. Light pressure is needed to get the connector into position on the RCM before using the lever to fully seat the connector.
- With the large RCM electrical wiring connector uniformly aligned to the RCM, lightly push in until a subtle audible click is heard and a slight resistance is felt.
  
  Fig 2: Positioning Large RCM Electrical Wiring Connector Into RCM
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Connect the large RCM electrical wiring connector.
- Using the connector position assurance lever, pivot it toward the RCM, drawing the connector into the RCM.
  - Make sure the thumb tab is engaged to the retainer on the RCM and locked in place.
    
    Fig 3: Connecting Large RCM Electrical Wiring Connector
    Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Install the center console. For additional information, refer to INSTRUMENT PANEL AND CONSOLE .
Repower the system. For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DEPOWERING AND REPOWERING in the General Procedures portion of this article.
When installing a new RCM, download the saved RCM module configuration information from the diagnostic tool to the new RCM. For additional information, refer to MODULE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK .
Prove out the supplemental restraint system (SRS) as follows:
Turn the ignition key from ON to OFF. Wait 10 seconds, then turn the key back to ON and visually monitor the air bag indicator with the air bag modules installed. The air bag indicator will light continuously for approximately 6 seconds and then turn off. If an air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) fault is present, the air bag indicator will:
- fail to light.
- remain lit continuously.
- flash.
The flashing might not occur until approximately 30 seconds after the ignition switch has been turned from the OFF to the ON position. This is the time required for the restraints control module (RCM) to complete the testing of the SRS. If the air bag indicator is inoperative and a SRS fault exists, a chime will sound in a pattern of 5 sets of 5 beeps. If this occurs, the air bag indicator and any SRS fault discovered must be diagnosed and repaired.

Clear all continuous DTCs from the restraints control module using a diagnostic tool.