Removal And Installation: Clockspring: Installation

Installing a new clockspring 

NOTE: A new clockspring is supplied in a centralized position and held with a sealing key.
1. Remove the sealing key from the clockspring, holding the rotor in its centralized position.
   • Do not allow the clockspring rotor to turn.

   Installing clockspring requiring recentering 

WARNING: If the clockspring is not correctly centralized, it may fail prematurely. If in doubt, repeat the centralizing procedure. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of serious personal injury or death in a crash.
NOTE: To prevent damage to the clockspring, make sure the road wheels are in the straight-ahead position.
NOTE: The clockspring inner rotor, wiring and connector must be in the 12 o'clock position to install the steering wheel.
2. If the vehicle clockspring has rotated out of center, follow these steps to center the clockspring.
   1. Hold the clockspring outer housing stationary.
   NOTE: Do not over-rotate the clockspring inner rotor. The internal ribbon wire is connected to the clockspring rotor. The internal ribbon wire acts as a stop and can be broken from its internal connection. Failure to follow this instruction may result in component damage and/or system failure.
   2. While turning the rotor clockwise, carefully feel for the ribbon wire to run out of length and for a slight resistance. Stop turning at this point.
   3. Turn the clockspring counterclockwise approximately 2.25 turns. This is the center point of the clockspring.
      • Do not allow the rotor to turn from this position.
      Fig 1: Holding Clockspring Outer Housing Stationary

      Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

      Installing original clockspring 

NOTE: When the tape is removed, do not allow the clockspring to turn.
3. Remove the tape applied during clockspring removal.

   All clocksprings 

NOTE: Slight turning of the clockspring rotor is allowable for alignment purposes to the steering column.
4. With the flats of the clockspring rotor aligned to the flats of the steering column shaft, slide the clockspring onto the steering column engaging the retaining tabs.
5. Press at the 6, 12 and 3 o'clock positions to seat the clockspring.
   Fig 2: Locating Clockspring Retaining Clips

   Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
6. Route the clockspring wiring through the instrument panel.
7. Attach the 2 clockspring retaining clips holding the wire to the steering column.
8. If equipped, install the key-in-ignition warning indicator switch.
   Fig 3: Attaching Clockspring Retaining Clips

   Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
9. Install the upper steering column shroud.
10. Install the lower steering shroud and 3 screws.
11. Install the ignition lock cylinder.
    • Put the ignition lock cylinder in the RUN position.
    • Insert the ignition lock cylinder into the steering column housing.
    • Make sure the ignition lock cylinder is fully seated and aligned in the interlocking washer before turning to the OFF position. This will allow the ignition lock cylinder retaining pin to extend into the steering column bore.
12. Using the key, rotate the ignition lock cylinder through all of the switch positions.
    • If the lock cylinder does not operate correctly, refer to Ignition Switch - Mechanical Component Test in the Diagnosis and Testing portion of STEERING COLUMN SWITCHES article.
13. If equipped, install the tilt lever/handle.
14. Install the steering wheel. For additional information, refer to STEERING COLUMN article.
15. Connect the clockspring electrical connectors.
    • Install the pin-type retainers into the bracket.
16. Install the steering column opening trim panel reinforcement and 6 bolts.
17. Install the DLC  and 2 screws.
18. Install the steering column opening cover.
    • Align the steering column opening cover and push in to seat the 6 retaining clips.
19. Install the DLC  electrical connector and 2 screws.
    Fig 4: Locating DLC And Screws

    Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
20. Install the driver air bag module. For additional information, refer to DRIVER AIR BAG MODULE .