Removal and Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Windstar. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Disconnect the battery ground cable (14301) and wait at least one minute to allow depletion of the restraint system backup power supply. For additional information, refer to BATTERY, MOUNTING AND CABLES .

WARNING: To avoid the risk of serious personal injury, read and follow all warnings, notes and instructions in the deactivation procedure.

Deactivate the supplemental restraint system (SRS). For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DEACTIVATION AND REACTIVATION .
Remove the access cover.
- Use a thin bladed screwdriver.
  
  Fig 1: Removing Access Cover
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the accessory and air bag module wiring.

Fig 2: Disconnecting Air Bag Module Wiring
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: When removing the steering wheel, care must be taken to prevent damage to the wiring and wiring connectors. Route the wiring through the small opening in the back of the steering wheel as it is removed from the column shaft.

NOTE: The driver air bag (soft pack) and steering wheel can be serviced separately or as an assembly. If the air bag (soft pack) has deployed, the steering wheel and air bag (soft pack) must be serviced as an assembly.

Fig 3: Locating Bolt

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tool, turn the pinion shaft 120 to 130 revolutions to release the steering wheel from the column shaft.

NOTE: When installing a new steering wheel-air bag (soft pack) assembly, steering wheel or air bag (soft pack), a prepaid return postcard is provided. The serial number of the steering wheel, air bag (soft pack) and vehicle identification number (VIN) must be recorded and sent to Ford Motor Company. This must be done in all cases, even if replacing only the steering wheel.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.
- Wiring from the clockspring must be routed through the small opening in the back of the steering wheel. Route the larger accessory wiring connector through the opening and then the smaller air bag module wiring connector.
  
  Fig 4: Identifying Air Bag Module And Steering Wheel
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

WARNING: To avoid the risk of serious personal injury, read and follow all warnings, cautions and notes in the reactivation procedure.

Fig 5: Locating Bolt

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Reactivate the supplemental restraint system (SRS). For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DEACTIVATION AND REACTIVATION .