Restraint Systems (Service Information): CLOCKSPRING: Description
The clockspring assembly is secured with two plastic latches integral to the back of the case onto the upper steering column housing near the top of the steering column behind the steering wheel. Two additional mounting tabs (6) with slotted holes integral to the sides of the case are secured by two screws that secure the upper and lower steering column shrouds to the column housing and to each other. On models equipped with an optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP), the clockspring also includes an integral, internal Steering Angle Sensor (SAS) that is serviced as a unit with the clockspring.
The clockspring consists of a flat, round molded plastic case (4) with a stubby tail that hangs below the steering column. Within the plastic case is a spool-like molded plastic rotor with a large exposed hub. The upper surface of the rotor hub has a large center hole, an engagement dowel (5), two short pigtail wires with connectors (1), and two connector receptacles (3) that face toward the steering wheel.
Service replacement clocksprings are shipped pre-centered and with a molded plastic locking pin (2) that snaps into a receptacle on the rotor and is engaged with tabs on the upper surface of the clockspring case. The locking pin secures the centered clockspring rotor to the clockspring case during shipment and handling, but must be removed from the clockspring after it is installed on the steering column. (Refer to ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - CLOCKSPRING CENTERING) .
Besides the two latch features (1), the lower surface of the case facing toward the instrument panel includes two integral connector receptacles (3). On units with the SAS there is an additional applied connector (4) with a short pigtail wire on the lower surface of the case, inboard of the two integral connectors. The lower surface of the rotor hub has a molded plastic turn signal cancel cam with a single lobe (2) that is integral to the rotor.
Within the plastic case and wound around the rotor spool is a long ribbon-like tape that consists of several thin copper wire leads sandwiched between two thin plastic membranes. The outer end of the tape terminates at the connector receptacles that face the instrument panel, while the inner end of the tape terminates at the pigtail wires and connector receptacles that face the steering wheel.
The clockspring cannot be repaired. If the clockspring is faulty, damaged, or if the driver airbag has been deployed, the clockspring must be replaced.