Mark VIII V8-4.6L DOHC (1996)
Side Air Bag: Description and Operation
CAUTION: The driver side air bag module assembly 18 serviced as a complete assembly.
The driver side air bag module assembly is mounted in the center of the steering wheel. The driver side air bag module assembly consists of the
following components:
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Inflator.
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Airbag.
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Mounting plate and retainer ring.
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Steering wheel trim cover.
Inflator
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The inflator assembly is not a serviceable item.
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When the sensors close, signaling a crash, electrical current flows to the air bag inflator.
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Inside the inflator, an igniter converts the electrical energy to thermal energy (heat), causing the ignition of the inflator gas generant.
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This ignition reaction combusts the sodium azide/copper oxide gas generant in the inflator, producing nitrogen gas, which inflates the air bag.
Air Bag
The air bag:
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Is constructed of neoprene-coated nylon.
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Is 673 mm (26.5 inches) in diameter.
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Fills to about 0.055 cubic meters (1.94 cubic feet) in approximately 40 milliseconds.
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Is not a serviceable item.
Mounting Plate and Retainer Ring
The mounting plate and retainer ring:
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Attach and seal air bag assembly to the inflator.
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Utilize the mounting plate to attach the trim cover and to mount the entire driver side air bag module to the steering wheel.
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Cannot be serviced because they are components of the driver side air bag module.
Steering Wheel Trim Cover
The steering wheel trim cover:
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Encases the driver side air bag module.
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Has tear seams moulded into the cover which separate to inflate the air bag when it is activated.
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Is not serviceable because it is a component of the driver side air bag module.