Dakota 4WD V8-5.2L VIN Y (1998)
Clockspring Assembly / Spiral Cable: Description and Operation
SYSTEM OPERATION
The clockspring is mounted on the steering column behind the steering wheel. This assembly consists of a plastic housing which contains a flat,
ribbon-like, electrically conductive tape that winds and unwinds with the steering wheel rotation.
The clockspring is used to maintain a continuous electrical circuit between the instrument panel wire harness and the driver side airbag module, the
horn switch, and the vehicle speed control switches on vehicles that are so equipped.
The clockspring must be properly centered when it is installed on the steering column following any service removal, or it will be damaged. See
the Clockspring Centering procedure for more information.
The clockspring cannot be repaired. If the clockspring is faulty, damaged, or if the airbag has been deployed, the clockspring must be replaced.
