Metro L3-061 1.0L VIN 6 TBI (1998)
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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.
Handling A Deployed Steering Wheel Inflator Module
After the inflatable restraint steering wheel module has deployed, the surface of the air bag may contain a powdery residue. This powder consists
primarily of cornstarch (which is 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, creating sodium carbonate and sodium
bicarbonate (baking soda). Therefore, you will probably find no sodium hydroxide present after the deployment. As a precaution you should wear gloves
and safety glasses, which help to prevent possible irritation of the skin or the eyes.
Handling A Live (Undeployed) Inflator Module
CAUTION: When you are carrying an undeployed inflator module:
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Do not carry the inflator module by the wires or connector on the inflator module
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Make sure the bag opening points away from you
When you are storing an undeployed inflator module, make sure the bag opening points away from the surface on which the inflator module
rests. When you are storing a steering column, do not rest the column with the bag opening facing down and the column vertical Provide free
space for the air bag to expand in case of an accidental deployment. Otherwise, personal injury may result.
Use special care when handling and storing a live (undeployed) inflator module. An air bag deployment produces rapid gas generation. This may cause
the inflator module, or an object in front of the inflator module, to jettison through the air in the unlikely event of an accidental deployment.