Steering: Service Precautions

Airbag

The electrically activated driver's side airbag is attached to the steering wheel hub and is fed by two wires from the column stalk assembly. Electrical input to the column stalk assembly for the airbag is provided by a dedicated harness which is encased in a yellow sleeve. A mechanism in the stalk assembly called the 'cable reel cassette' provides continuity from the static column to the steering wheel. The 'cable reel cassette' is driven by a tang which locates in the steering wheel. Because the connection is by wires, and the cassette assembly is only capable of approximately five (5) full turns, it is critically important that initial positioning is correct.

It is equally important that fitting of the steering wheel, connection of the column, lower shaft and steering rack should ONLY be made with the steering rack in the center of its travel.

WARNING: DO NOT REMOVE THE STEERING COLUMN FROM THE VEHICLE WITH THE STEERING WHEEL ATTACHED UNLESS THE STEERING IS CENTERED AND THE COLUMN LOCK IS ENGAGED. IF THE LOCK BARREL IS TO BE RENEWED, 'LOCK-WIRE' THE ASSEMBLY TO PREVENT ROTATION. FAIL TO OBSERVE THIS AND CONSEQUENT DAMAGE TO THE 'CABLE REEL CASSETTE' MAY RESULT IN AN INOPERATIVE AIRBAG SYSTEM. SEE LABEL ON STEERING WHEEL HUB.