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

Module, Driver Side Air Bag

NOTE: If the air bag did not deploy in an accident, it may not have been needed. Complete all diagnosis procedures before replacing the driver side air bag module (043B13).

Removal

  1.  WARNING: THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT NECESSARY FOR SYSTEM DEPLOYMENT IS POWERED DIRECTLY FROM THE BATTERY AND BACKUP POWER SUPPLY. TO AVOID ACCIDENTAL DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY, THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE MUST BE DISCONNECTED FOR ONE MINUTE PRIOR TO SERVICING OR REPLACING ANY SYSTEM COMPONENTS.

    Disconnect battery positive cable and wait one minute for backup power supply energy to be depleted.

  1. Remove four nut and washer assemblies retaining driver side air bag module to steering wheel (3600).

  1. Disconnect the electrical connector on driver side air bag module from connector on air bag sliding contact (14A664).

  1.  WARNING: AFTER REMOVAL, PLACE AIR BAG MODULE ON BENCH WITH TRIM COVER FACING UP.

    Remove driver side air bag module.

  1. Provide the parts counter with the vehicle identification number (VIN). Have the dealership fill out the prepaid postcard to be paid for the repair. Mail the postcard back to:

    Ford Customer Service Division

    Ford Motor Company

    P.O. Box 1904

    Dearborn, MI 48121-9976

    Be sure to include the vehicle identification number (VIN) and the serial number information from the replacement module. Any additional information may be helpful to provide traceability, such as the vehicle owner's name, address, etc.

Installation

  1. Fill out the traceability postcard supplied with the new driver side air bag module and return it to Ford Motor Company. Note the diagnostic trouble code.

  1. Connect wiring connector of the driver side air bag module to connector on the air bag sliding contact.

  1. Position driver side air bag module to steering wheel and secure with four nut and washer assemblies. Tighten to 4-6 Nm (35-53 lb-in).

  1. NOTE: When the battery has been disconnected and reconnected, some abnormal drive symptoms may occur while the powertrain control module (PCM) (12A650) relearns its adaptive strategy. The vehicle may need to be driven 16 km (10 miles) or more to relearn the strategy.

    Connect battery positive cable.

  1. Prove out system.