Section 01-20B: Restraints, Passive, Supplemental Air Bag System
1996 F-150, F-250, Bronco Workshop Manual
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION

Steering Column Wheel and Air Bag Sliding Contact

The steering column assembly is an energy-absorbing type. It has two breakaway mounting points (capsules) molded into the column casting and a bend strap that allows controlled downward movement of the steering column and wheel upon impact.

The air bag sliding contact (14A664) is mounted on the steering column, behind the steering wheel (3600). The air bag sliding contact continuously transfers electrical signals from the steering column wire harness to the contact in the steering wheel for the supplemental air bag restraint system to the impact sensors.