Deployment Outside Vehicle (Steering Wheel Module, IP Module)

Deploy the inflator module outside of the vehicle when the vehicle will be returned to service. Situations that require deployment outside of the vehicle include the following:

• Using the SIR diagnostics, it is determined that the inflator module is malfunctioning.
• The inflator module is cosmetically damaged (scratched or ripped).
• The inflator module pigtail (if equipped) is damaged.
• The inflator module connector is damaged.
• The inflator module connector terminals are damaged.

Deployment and disposal of a malfunctioning inflator module is subject to any required retention period.

Tools Required

• J 38826  SIR Deployment Harness. See Special Tools and Equipment .
• J 39401-B  SIR Deployment Fixture. See Special Tools and Equipment .
• An appropriate pigtail adaptor

1. Turn OFF the ignition.
2. Remove the ignition key.
3. Put on safety glasses.
4. Remove the inflator module. Refer to the following:
   • When removing the steering wheel module, refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Replacement .
   • When removing the IP module, refer to Inflatable Restraint Instrument Panel Module Replacement .
CAUTION: Refer to SIR Inflator Module Handling And Storage Caution in Cautions and Notices.
5. Place the inflator module with the vinyl trim cover facing up and away from the surface on a work bench, floor, or deployment fixture.
Fig 1: Illustrating Proper Storage Of Inflator Module
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
6. Clear a space on the floor approximately 1.85 m (6 ft) in diameter for deployment of the inflator module. If possible, use a paved, outdoor location free of activity. Otherwise, use a space free of activity on the shop floor. Make sure you have sufficient ventilation.
7. Make sure no loose or flammable objects are in the area.
8. When deploying the steering wheel module, place the steering wheel module in the center of the space.
Fig 2: Clearance For Deployment Of Inflator Module
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
9. When deploying the IP module, refer to the following instructions:
   • Place the SIR deployment fixture (2) in the center of the cleared area.
   • Fill the deployment fixture with water or sand.
   • Mount the IP module (1) in the deployment fixture (2) with the vinyl/plastic trim cover facing up.
   • To mount, use four M 6 bolts (6), nuts (8), and washers (7) in order to properly secure the IP module (1) to the deployment fixture.
   • Securely tighten all fasteners prior to deployment.
   Fig 3: Identifying I/P Module Components
   Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
10. Inspect the SIR deployment harness and the appropriate pigtail adapter for damage. Replace as needed.
11. Short the two SIR deployment harness (1) leads together using one banana plug seated into the other.
12. Connect the appropriate pigtail adapter (2) to the SIR deployment harness (1).
Fig 4: Identifying SIR Deployment Harness & Adapter
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
13. Extend the SIR deployment harness and adapter to full length from the deployment fixture.
Fig 5: Extending SIR Deployment Harness & Adapter
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
14. Connect the inflator module (1) to the adapter (2) on the SIR deployment harness (3).
    IMPORTANT: When deploying an inflator module the rapid expansion of gas involved with deploying an inflator module is very loud. Notify all the people in the immediate area that an inflator module will be deployed.
    IMPORTANT: When the inflator module deploys, the deployment fixture may jump about 30 cm (1 ft) vertically. This is a normal reaction of a deploying inflator module.
15. Clear the area of people.
Fig 6: Inflator Module & SIR Deployment Harness Adapter
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
16. Separate the two banana plugs on the SIR deployment harness.
Fig 7: Separating Banana Plugs
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
17. Place a 12 V minimum/2 A minimum power source (i.e. vehicle battery) near the shorted end of the SIR deployment harness.
IMPORTANT: The inflator module will deploy when the SIR deployment harness wires contact the power source.
18. Connect the SIR deployment harness wires to the power source. Inflator module deployment will occur when contact is made.
19. Disconnect the SIR deployment harness from the power source.
20. If the inflator module did not deploy, disconnect the adapter and discontinue the procedure. Contact the Technical Assistance Group. Otherwise, proceed to the following steps.
Fig 8: Connecting SIR Deployment Harness Wires To Power Source
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
21. Seat one banana plug into the other in order to short the deployment harness leads.
Fig 9: View Of Deployment Harness Leads
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
CAUTION: Refer to SIR Deployed Inflator Modules Are Hot Caution in Cautions and Notices.
22. Put on a pair of shop gloves.
23. Disconnect the pigtail adapter from the inflator module as soon as possible.
24. Dispose of the deployed inflator module through normal refuse channels.
25. Wash hands with a mild soap.
Fig 10: Disposing Of Deployed Inflator Module
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.