Section 568 (Air Bag Restraint Systems (Service Information)): CLOCKSPRING: Description
The clockspring for this model is internal to and serviced as a unit with the Steering Control Module (SCM) (4). The SCM is secured near the top of the steering column behind the steering wheel. The SCM is a modular unit that also interfaces with and supports the left (lighting) multi-function switch (1), the right (wiper) multi-function switch (2), and the hazard switch (3). Each of these switches can be separated from and are serviced individually from the SCM.
Besides the clockspring, the SCM contains an electronic circuit board and a microprocessor, which allows it to communicate with other electronic modules in the vehicle over the Controller Area Network (CAN) data bus. On models so equipped, the SCM also includes an integral Steering Angle Sensor (SAS). The SCM circuitry, the clockspring, and the SAS are all contained within a flat, round molded plastic case.
The SCM case includes two connector receptacles that face toward the instrument panel. Within the plastic case is a spool-like molded plastic rotor with a large exposed hub. The upper surface of the rotor hub has a large, keyed center hole, an index hole, two short pigtail wires with connectors, and two connector receptacles that face toward the steering wheel. Wound around the rotor spool within the case is a long ribbon-like tape that consists of several thin copper wire leads sandwiched between two thin plastic membranes. The outer end of the tape terminates at the connector receptacles that face the instrument panel, while the inner end of the tape terminates at the pigtail wires and connector receptacles on the hub of the clockspring rotor that face the steering wheel. The lower surface of the rotor hub has a molded plastic turn signal cancel cam with two lobes that is keyed to the clockspring rotor.
The service replacement SCM is shipped with the clockspring pre-centered and with a molded plastic locking pin (5) installed. The locking pin secures the centered clockspring rotor to the SCM case during shipment and handling, but must be removed after the SCM is installed on the steering column and before the steering wheel is installed. (Refer to ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - CLOCKSPRING CENTERING) .
The clockspring cannot be repaired. If the clockspring is faulty, damaged, or if the driver airbag has been deployed, the SCM/clockspring/SAS unit must be replaced. (Refer to STEERING/COLUMN/STEERING COLUMN CONTROL MODULE - REMOVAL) .