Clock Spring: Operation

The clock spring assembly consists of a plastic case which contains a flat, ribbon-like, electrically conductive tape that winds and unwinds like a clock spring with the steering wheel rotation. The electrically conductive tape consists of several fine gauge copper wire leads sandwiched between two narrow strips of plastic film.

Like the clock spring in a timepiece, the clock spring tape has travel limits and can be damaged by being wound too tightly. To prevent this from occurring, the clock spring is centered when it is installed on the steering column. Centering the clock spring indexes the clock spring tape to other steering components so that it can operate within its designed travel limits. However, if the clock spring is removed for service or if the steering column is disconnected from the steering gear allowing the clock spring tape to change position relative to the other steering components, it must be re-centered following completion of the service or it may be damaged. Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE - CLOCK SPRING CENTERING .