Compass Demagnetizing
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Chrysler Concorde, 2003 Chrysler 300M, 2002 Chrysler Concorde, and 2002 Chrysler 300M. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
A degaussing tool is used to demagnetize, or degauss, the overhead console forward mounting screw and the roof panel above the overhead console. Equivalent units must be rated as continuous duty for 110-115 volts and 60 Hz. They must also have a field strength of over 0.25" (350 gauss at 7 mm) beyond the tip of the probe.
To demagnetize the roof panel and the overhead console forward mounting screw, proceed as follows:
- Be certain that the ignition switch is in the OFF position, before you begin the demagnetizing procedure.
- Connect the degaussing tool to an electrical outlet, while keeping the tool at least 2 feet (61 centimeters) away from the compass unit.
- Slowly approach the head of the overhead console forward mounting screw with the degaussing tool connected.
- Contact the head of the screw with the plastic coated tip of the degaussing tool for about 2 seconds.
- With the degaussing tool still energized, slowly back it away from the screw. When the tip of the tool is at least 2 feet (61 centimeters) from the screw head, disconnect the tool.
- Place a piece of paper approximately 8.5 by 11" (22 by 28 centimeters), oriented on the vehicle lengthwise from front to rear, on the center line of the roof at the windshield header (Roof Demagnetizing Pattern). The purpose of the paper is to protect the roof panel from scratches, and to define the area to be demagnetized. See Fig 1 .
- Connect the degaussing tool to an electrical outlet, while keeping the tool at least 2 feet (61 centimeters) away from the compass unit.
- Slowly approach the center line of the roof panel at the windshield header, with the degaussing tool connected.
- Contact the roof panel with the plastic coated tip of the degaussing tool. Be sure that the template is in place to avoid scratching the roof panel. Using a slow, back-and-forth sweeping motion, and allowing 0.50" (13 mm) between passes, move the tool at least 4" (11 centimeters) to each side of the roof center line, and 11" (28 centimeters) back from the windshield header.
- With the degaussing tool still energized, slowly back it away from the roof panel. When the tip of the tool is at least 2 feet (61 centimeters) from the roof panel, disconnect the tool.
- Calibrate the compass and adjust the compass variance.