Airbag Handling Precautions
WARNING: SAFE HANDLING OF DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG MODULE REQUIRES FOLLOWING THE PROCEDURES DESCRIBED BELOW FOR BOTH LIVE AND DEPLOYED AIR BAGS. ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES WHEN SERVICING VEHICLE WITH A SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM AND WHEN HANDLING A DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG MODULE.LIVE AIR BAGS
When carrying a live driver side air bag module make sure the bag and trim cover are pointed away from your body. In the unlikely event of an accidental deployment, the bag will then deploy with minimal chance of injury. In addition, when placing a live driver side air bag module on a bench or other surface, always face the bag and trim cover up, away from the surface. This will reduce the motion of the module if it is accidentally deployed.
DEPLOYED AIR BAGS
Safety precautions must also be observed when handling a deployed air bag. After deployment, the air bag surface may contain deposits of sodium hydroxide, a product of the gas generant combustion that is irritating to the skin. Always wear gloves and safety glasses when handling a deployed air bag. Wash your hands with mild soap and water afterwards.
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
WARNINGS:
- NEVER probe the connectors on the air bags. Doing so may result in air bag deployment which could result in personal injury.
- Driver side air bag modules with discolored or damaged cover deployment doors must be replaced.
- Do not repaint air bag deployment doors (covers) that show discoloration, scratches or tears. Air bag repairs are to be made by replacement only.
- Because of the critical operating requirements of the system, do not attempt to service sensors, air bag sliding contact, air bag diagnostic monitor or driver side air bag module. service is made by replacement only.
- If a part is replaced and the new part does not correct the condition, install the original part and perform the diagnostic procedure again. All component replacements and wiring being serviced must be made with the battery positive cable disconnected for a minimum of one minute before service or replacement is attempted.
- The instruction "disconnect" always refers to a connector. NEVER detach a component from the vehicle when instructed to "disconnect."
- Vehicle sensor orientation is critical for proper system operation. If a vehicle equipped with supplemental air bag restraint system is involved in a crash where the hood area or frame have been damaged, the sensor should be replaced whether or not the air bag is deployed. In addition, make sure that body structure in the area of sensor mounting is restored to its original condition.