F 350 4WD Pickup V8-351 5.8L VIN H EFI (1997)
Side Air Bag: Description and Operation
Driver Side Air Bag Module
NOTE: The driver side air bag module is serviced as a complete assembly.
DESCRIPTION
The driver side air bag module is mounted in the center of the steering wheel and consists of the following components:
Inflator
-
When the sensors close, signaling a crash, electrical current flows to the air bag inflator.
-
Inside the inflator, an igniter converts the current into thermal energy, causing ignition of the inflator gas generant.
-
This ignition reaction combusts the sodium azide/copper oxide gas generant in the inflator, producing nitrogen gas, which inflates the air bag.
NOTE: The inflator assembly is not a serviceable item.
Air Bag
-
The air bag is constructed of uncoated nylon.
-
Fills to a volume of about 0.057 cubic cm (2.0 cubic ft) in approximately 40 milliseconds.
NOTE: The air bag is not a serviceable item.
Mounting Plate and Retainer Ring
The mounting plate and retainer ring attach and seal the air bag to the inflator.
-
The mounting bracket and housing are also used to attach the trim cover and to mount the entire driver side air bag module to the steering
wheel.
NOTE: The mounting plate and retainer ring are not serviceable items.
Steering Wheel Trim Cover
The cover is an injection-moulded plastic component which encases the driver side air bag module.
-
When the air bag is activated, tear seams moulded into the steering wheel trim cover separate to allow inflation.
