OEM 2002 Ford Explorer Clock Spring

2002 Ford Explorer Clock Spring Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: What Precautions Should Be Taken When Servicing the Clock Spring on 2002 Ford Explorer?

  A: Safety glasses should be worn during air bag sliding contact service because they provide protection against accidental air bag deployment injuries while live air bag modules must be handled with the trim cover facing away from your body position. Handle and position air bag modules with the face up while avoiding direct contact with the hands afterward because sodium hydroxide residue may present. Probing air bag module connectors should be strictly avoided because deployment is likely to happen. The shop should replace discoloration or damaged air bag modules instead of using repainting techniques while stopping the use of memory saver devices. The air bag warning lamp will shine when the RCM fuse is disconnected from an ON ignition condition but the indication signifies no SRS fault exists. A functional and free of faults SRS system must be fully checked before handing back the vehicle to customers. The procedure for removing the Clock Spring includes first depowering the system, straightening the road wheels while following steps for removing the driver air bag module and steering wheel. I remove the instrument panel lower steering column cover while applying masking tape across the Clock Spring for preventing this component from rotating after which I detach the gear selector boot while avoiding the use of prying tools. Detach the lower and upper steering column shrouds after which disconnect the multi-function switch from the Clock Spring by unplugging the electrical connector and removing the screw. The Clock Spring needs disconnecting as part of removing the bolts on vehicles which feature advanced restrains systems. Verify that the Clock Spring bracket has no damage before installing a new one. Install the new bracket for the Clock Spring while placing the Clock Spring in its central position by removing the key followed by holding the rotor. Advantageously centralize the Clock Spring through outer housing stationarity while applying counterclockwise rotor rotation until resistance occurs followed by a clockwise three-turn adjustment. You should connect the Clock Spring electrical connectors correctly to the steering column. After that install the multi-function switch and both steering column shrouds, the gear selector boot and instrument panel cover. Install the steering wheel after securing the driver air bag module along with all electrical connectors which must be properly aligned before system power-up.