Restraints System (Service Information): CLOCKSPRING: Removal

The clockspring cannot be repaired. It must be replaced if faulty or damaged, or if the driver airbag has been deployed.

WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG, PASSENGER AIRBAG, SIDE IMPACT SENSOR, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.

NOTE: Before starting this procedure, be certain to turn the steering wheel until the front wheels are in the straight-ahead position.

Place the front wheels in the straight ahead position.

Fig 1: Disconnecting/Connecting Negative Battery Cable
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Disconnect the negative battery cable (2). Wait two minutes for the system capacitor to discharge before further service.
Remove the driver side airbag. (Refer to ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/DRIVER AIRBAG - REMOVAL) .
WARNING: DO NOT PLACE AN INTACT UNDEPLOYED AIRBAG FACE DOWN ON A HARD SURFACE, THE AIRBAG WILL PROPEL INTO THE AIR IF ACCIDENTALLY DEPLOYED.

Fig 2: Removing/Installing Steering Wheel Bolt Using Special Tool
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Remove the steering wheel tapered bolt (1) from the steering column with a suitable tool (2).
Remove the steering wheel. (Refer to STEERING/COLUMN/STEERING WHEEL - REMOVAL) .

Fig 3: Locating Clockspring Screws
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Remove the two screws (1) that secure the clockspring to the steering column upper housing.
Remove the clockspring.
Separate the clockspring from the steering angle sensor. (Refer to BRAKES/ELECTRICAL/STEERING ANGLE SENSOR - REMOVAL) .

NOTE: If the clockspring is to be reused, be certain to secure the clockspring rotor to the clockspring case to maintain clockspring centering until it is reinstalled on the steering column. If clockspring centering is not maintained, the clockspring must be centered again before it is reinstalled. (Refer to ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING - STANDARD PROCEDURE) .