Post-Collision Repairs

While repairing an air bag equipped vehicle that has been involved in an accident, check sensors and wiring. Sensor to vehicle positioning is critical for proper system operation. If a vehicle equipped with an air bag system is involved in a crash where the mud guards or grill area have been damaged, inspect the sensor mounting brackets for damage. If damaged, the sensor should be replaced whether or not the air bag has been deployed. In addition, make sure that the body structure in the area of the sensor has been restored to its original condition.

Inspect the sensor wiring and the wiring harness for any damage that may have occurred due to the accident. Repair or replace any damaged wiring, terminals, insulation or connectors as required. If splices are required in adjacent wiring, they should be staggered by 50 mm (2 inches).

A waterproof butt splice has been released that should be used for all repairs to wiring located in the engine compartment. The "DURASEAL" heat shrinkable nylon splice provides a long lasting joint that can withstand water, salt, condensation, corrosion and heat, all of which cause problems for conventional unsealed splices.

The inner wall of the splice is lined with a special adhesive that melts as the splice is heated and flows under pressure from the tubing, filling voids and sealing the splice.





Part Name Class
Butt Connector Gauge: 18-22, Color: Red C
Butt Connector Gauge: 14-16, Color: Blue C
Butt Connector Gauge: 10-12, Color: Yellow C

The "DURASEAL" splice can be easily installed using a standard crimp tool and a heat gun. They are also color coded for easy identification of sizes, yet are transparent for visual inspection of the finished splice.

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
If the accident involved deployment of the air bag, the steering column may have been loaded sufficiently to deform the steering column mounting brackets or damage the column wiring. An inspection should be made of the column structure and clockspring wiring to make sure that any damaged components are replaced.

Steering Column
If the collision involved an air bag deployment, the steering column may have been loaded sufficiently to deform the steering column mounting brackets or damage the column wiring. An inspection should be made of the column structure and clockspring wiring to ensure that any damaged components are replaced.

CAUTION: Before attempting diagnostic prove out, check all sensors and wiring for damage or shorts that could cause the air bag diagnostic monitor thermal fuse to blow (open), causing unnecessary replacement.

After all service is completed, verify the air bag indicator operation as follows:
- Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
- Count the air bag indicator flashes only after the code (series of flashes) has cycled twice.

After all service, verify the air bag indicator lamp.