OEM 2001 Ford Taurus Clock Spring

2001 Ford Taurus Clock Spring Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: What Precautions Should Be Taken When Servicing the Clock Spring Assembly on 2001 Ford Taurus?

  A: Safety glasses should always be worn during Clock Spring assembly servicing to prevent injuries that could occur due to accidental air bag deployment. Always handle live air bag modules by directing the air bag and trim cover opposite your body and maintain them with the surface facing upward. Avoid using memory saver devices. The warning light on the air bag becomes active when the RCM fuse is taken out while the ignition remains turned on but this is a standard condition that does not validate a problem. All SRS systems need to show both full functionality without any detected faults before rebuilding vehicles for customers. The repair requires replacement of a new component but if problems continue the technician should reinstall the existing part followed by another diagnostic test. The first step requires system depowering followed by wheel alignment in a straight position. First reduce the steering wheel then lower the steering column opening cover with reinforcement followed by Clock Spring tape application across the spring for stopping rotation. First tilt-down the steering column and remove the tilt wheel components starting with the handle followed by the shank and then extract the ignition switch lock cylinder by setting the position to RUN and activating the release. The first step to replace the Clock Spring involves extracting the PATS transmitter from its position after removing the lower and upper steering column shrouds then disconnecting the key-in-ignition warning indicator switch. The shift indicator tube must be detached in car models with column shift. Disconnect the Clock Spring electrical connector pin-type retainers before directing the Clock Spring wire harness out of the wire holders. Use a tool to extract the retaining clips from the Clock Spring to perform its removal. New Clock Spring installation starts by removing the key while maintaining the rotor position in the center without rotation. When recentering the rotor you should keep the outer housing still while pushing the anti-rotation tab and turning the rotor counterwise until you feel resistance then move it three clockwise turns to achieve the center position. When performing a second use of an existing Clock Spring you must detach the tape without permitting the Clock Spring to rotate. Place the installed Clock Spring onto the steering column before you secure retaining clips while you guide the wire harness. Vehicle models with column shift need the installation of both the shift indicator tube and cable. The installation includes connecting Clock Spring electrical wires while mounting the key-in-ignition warning indicator switch as well as the PATS transmitter using its retaining screw. Secure the steering column shrouds by aligning their upper and lower parts and using screws for attachment. First install the ignition switch lock cylinder to its OFF mark until you add the tilt wheel handle and shank for placement. When you decide to reuse the Clock Spring you should remove the tape before installing the lower steering column opening cover with reinforcement by tightening bolts to 7 Nm (62 lb in). Finish the project by placing back the steering wheel and restarting the power system.