Envoy 4WD V6-4.3L VIN W (1998)
Air Bag: Service and Repair
Handling/Shipping/Scrapping
Handling A Deployed Inflator Module
After the inflator module has deployed, the surface of the air bag may contain a powdery residue. This powder consists primarily of cornstarch (used to
lubricate the bag as it inflates), and by-products of the chemical reaction. The deployment reaction produces sodium hydroxide dust (similar to lye soap).
The sodium hydroxide quickly reacts with the atmospheric moisture. This atmospheric moisture converts the sodium hydroxide into sodium carbonate
and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). Therefore, you will probably find no sodium hydroxide present after the deployment. Gloves and safety glasses
are recommended, however, as a precaution. Gloves and safety glasses help to prevent possible irritation of the skin or eyes.
Scrapping Procedures
During the course of a vehicle's useful life, certain situations may arise which will necessitate the disposal of a live (undeployed) inflator module. The
following information covers the proper procedures for the disposing of a live inflator module. Deploy the inflator module before disposal. Do not
dispose of the module through normal disposal channels.
Shipping Procedures For Live (Undeployed) Inflator Modules
Refer to the latest service bulletins for proper SIR inflator module shipping procedures.
