LSS V6-3.8L VIN K (1997)
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. This
information covers proper procedures for disposing of a live inflator module. Before you dispose of a live inflator module, you must deploy the inflator
module. Do not dispose of live inflator modules through normal refuse channels.
CAUTION: In order to prevent accidental deployment of the air bag which could cause personal injury, do not dispose of an undeployed
inflater module as normal shop waste. The undeployed inflator module contains substances that could cause severe illness or personal injury If
the sealed container is damaged during disposal. Use the following deployment procedures to safely dispose of an undeployed inflator module.
Failure to dispose of an inflator module as instructed may be a violation of federal, state, or local laws.
Do not deploy the air bag(s) in the following situations:
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If you replace an inflator module under warranty. You may need to return the inflator module, undeployed, to Delphi Interiors & Lighting
Group. Refer to the latest service bulletin regarding SIR shipping procedures.
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If a vehicle is the subject of a Product Liability Report related to the SIR system and is subject to a Preliminary Investigation (GM-1241). DO
NOT ALTER the SIR system in any manner. Refer to the latest service bulletin on SIR shipping procedures.
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If a vehicle is involved in a campaign affecting the inflator modules. Follow instructions in the Campaign Service Bulletin for proper SIR
handling and shipping procedures.
You can deploy an inflator module inside or outside of the vehicle. The method you use depends upon the final disposition of the vehicle. Read
Deployment Outside Vehicle and Deployment Inside Vehicle to decide whether to deploy the inflator module inside or outside of the vehicle. See:
Deployment Procedures
Shipping Procedures For Live (Undeployed) Inflator Modules
Service personnel should refer to the latest Service Bulletins for proper SIR inflator module shipping procedures.
