Town Car V8-4.6L VIN W (1997)
Side Air Bag: Description and Operation
Driver Side Air Bag Module
AIR BAG MODULE
The driver side air bag module is mounted in the center of the steering wheel. The Town Car has a serviceable horn switch contained in the trim cover.
The driver side air bag module consists of the following components:
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inflator
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airbag
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module housing and attaching bracket
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steering wheel trim cover
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in-cover, serviceable horn switch
NOTE: The driver side air bag module is serviced as a complete assembly. Perform proper disposal procedure as described.
INFLATOR
The air bag inflator assembly is not a serviceable item.
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When the sensor system closes, signaling a crash, electrical energy flows to the air bag inflator.
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Inside the inflator, an igniter converts the electrical signal to thermal energy (heat), causing the ignition of the inflator gas generant.
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This ignition reaction combusts the solid gas generant in the inflator, producing nitrogen gas, which inflates the air bag.
AIR BAG
The driver side air bag:
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is 100% uncoated nylon.
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is 673 mm (26.5 inches) in diameter.
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fills to a volume of about 0.057 cubic meter (2.0 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 the air bag assembly to the inflator.
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also attach the trim cover and mount the entire driver side air bag module to the steering wheel.
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are components of the driver side air bag module and cannot be serviced.
STEERING WHEEL TRIM COVER
The steering wheel trim cover:
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encases driver side air bag module and horn switch.
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has moulded in tear seams that separate to allow inflation of the bag.
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must not be repainted for any reason.