Expedition 2WD V8-281 4.6L VIN W EFI (1997)
Side Air Bag: Description and Operation
Passenger Side Air Bag Module
NOTE: The passenger side air bag module is serviced as a complete assembly.
DESCRIPTION
The passenger side air bag module is mounted in the RH position of the instrument panel above the glove compartment and consists of the following
components:
Inflator
-
As with the driver side air bag module, an igniter inside the inflator converts electrical energy to thermal energy, causing ignition of the gas
generant.
-
The ignition reaction causes combustion of the sodium azide/iron oxide gas generant producing nitrogen to fill the bag.
-
Since the passenger side air bag is much larger than the driver air bag, it contains more gas generant in a different inflator configuration to
produce more nitrogen gas.
NOTE: The passenger side air bag inflator is not a serviceable item.
Air Bag
The passenger side air bag is constructed of ripstop nylon and fills to a volume of approximately 0.142 cubic meters (5 cubic feet).
NOTE: The air bag is not a serviceable item.
Reaction Housing
The reaction housing is a steel support for the inflator that provides a reaction surface for the passenger side air bag and is also used to attach the
trim cover. It contains mounting brackets that attach the passenger side air bag module to the instrument panel.
