Air Bag System

CAUTION: Read the following safety precautions BEFORE servicing steering columns on vehicles equipped with air bag restraint system.

ALWAYS wear safety glasses when servicing a vehicle with an air bag and when handling an air bag.

Air bag system MUST be disabled BEFORE servicing ANY air bag component. See 1998 AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS FORD MOTOR CO. DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM , 1999 ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT -- AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS -- ECONOLINE DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM or 2000 AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS -- ECONOLINE DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM

When handling an air bag module, ensure the bag and trim cover are pointed away from your body. This reduces the chance of injury in case of accidental air bag deployment. When placing the air bag module on a bench or any other surface, ALWAYS face the air bag and trim cover up, away from the surface. This reduces motion of the module if accidentally deployed.

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 inflation gas generant combustion that irritates skin. ALWAYS wear gloves and safety glasses when handling an air bag. Wash hands with mild soap and water afterward.

NEVER probe connectors on an air bag module. Air bag may deploy causing personal injury.

DO NOT attempt to service an air bag module or contact assembly. To correct any system malfunctions, replace the complete assembly.

After any servicing, ensure the AIR BAG light does not indicate any faults.