E 250 Van V8-7.3L DSL Turbo VIN F (1995)
Impact Sensor: Description and Operation
WARNING: VEHICLE SENSOR ORIENTATION IS CRITICAL FOR PROPER SYSTEM OPERATION. IF A VEHICLE EQUIPPED
WITH A SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN A CRASH WHERE THE RADIATOR
SUPPORT, FRAME RAILS OR COWLS HAVE BEEN DAMAGED, INSPECT THE SENSOR MOUNTING BRACKETS FOR
DEFORMATION. IF DAMAGED, THE SENSOR SHOULD BE REPLACED WHETHER OR NOT THE AIR BAG IS DEPLOYED. IN
ADDITION, MAKE SURE THE BODY STRUCTURE IN THE AREA OF THE SENSOR MOUNTING IS RESTORED TO ITS ORIGINAL
CONDITION.
NOTE: Undamaged sensors will reset automatically after an accident and can be reused.
The sensors are electrical switches which react to impacts according to direction and force. Sensors discriminate between impacts that require air bag
inflation and impacts that do not require air bag inflation. When an impact occurs that requires air bag inflation, the sensor contacts close, completing the
electrical circuit necessary for system operation.
Three sensors are mounted in the vehicle. Their locations are as follows:
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A primary air bag sensor at the center of the radiator support.
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A primary sensor on the right frame rail.
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A safing sensor at the right cowl side trim panel.
At least two sensors (one primary sensor and one safing sensor) must be closed to inflate the air bag.
The sensors automatically "reset" after a collision and do not need to be replaced unless they are physically damaged. Replace only if proper alignment is
not possible due to bent brackets, cut wires, smashed connectors, etc.
