Description And Operation
The clockspring (3) is illustrated in the diagram. The clockspring transfers the electrical signal (2) to controls on the steering wheel (horn and other optional controls) and connects the airbag module (1) without risk of breakage. The device consists of two plates and is secured to the steering column interface via its lower plate. It is built into the steering wheel by means of fasteners on the upper plate. Inside the two plates, the leads connecting the module and horn buttons are wound in a coil so that they can follow steering wheel movements.
The clockspring is integral to the stalk unit, which also includes the left (lighting) and right (wiper) multifunction switches. The stalk unit may be configured differently, according to the controls present.
- stalk unit without cruise control lever.
- stalk unit with cruise control lever.
The stalk unit is produced by Delphi. The clockspring includes two cables on the steering wheel side, one to connect the airbag module and one for the connection of the steering wheel electrical functions (horn, radio controls). A ring on the upper plate, steering wheel side, automatically prevents both plates from rotating in relation to one another when the device is disconnected from the steering wheel. The new clockspring is equipped with a safety key for transport, which should be removed after installation.
The connection cables for the airbag module and the various electrical functions are wound inside the two plates so that they can follow the rotation of the steering wheel. The rotation of the upper plate is activated by means of the fasteners inside the lock ring which engage in the seat on the steering wheel hub. In a working position, the steering wheel presses on the ring to release it from its fasteners and thus allow both plates to turn freely. When the steering wheel is removed the ring, thrust by a spring, stops the rotation between the two plates. This function prevents the upper plate, no longer secured to the steering wheel, from turning freely and unwinding or winding the coil inside the device and possibly causing it to break.
In operations that require the removal of the steering wheel and the device it is compulsory to observe the following:
- always work with wheels aligned in a straight driving position,
- lock, for safety, the two discs with a band before removing the steering wheel interface device.
Should the upper plate turn in relation to the lower plate for any reason so that the exact starting position is no longer completely certain, the clockspring MUST be replaced.