RAM 1500 Truck 4WD V8-5.9L VIN Z (2002)
the upper left inflator mounting stud on the back of the housing. The horn switch feed pigtail wire has a black, molded plastic insulator and is
connected to the vehicle electrical system through a connector receptacle on the clockspring. Both horn switch wires are routed through integral
routing slots in the upper locking block of the trim cover receptacle.
The airbag used in this model is a Next Generation-type that complies with revised federal airbag standards to deploy with less force than those
used in some prior models. A 71.1 centimeter (28 inch) diameter, radial deploying fabric cushion with internal tethers is used. The airbag inflator
is a non-azide, pyrotechnic-type unit and is secured by four hex nuts to four studs on the airbag cushion retainer ring to the back of the stamped
metal airbag housing. A connector receptacle on the driver airbag inflator connects the inflator initiator to the vehicle electrical system through a
yellow-jacketed, two-wire pigtail harness of the clockspring. The driver airbag and horn switch unit cannot be repaired, and must be replaced if
deployed or in any way damaged.
The driver airbag is deployed by electrical signals generated by the Airbag Control Module (ACM) through the driver airbag squib circuit to the
initiator in the airbag inflator. When the ACM sends the proper electrical signal to the initiator, the electrical energy generates enough heat to
initiate a small pyrotechnic charge which, in turn ignites chemical pellets within the inflator. Once ignited, these chemical pellets burn rapidly and
produce a large quantity of inert gas. The inflator is sealed to the back of the airbag housing and a diffuser in the inflator directs all of the inert gas
into the airbag cushion, causing the cushion to inflate. As the cushion inflates, the driver airbag trim cover will split at predetermined breakout
lines, then fold back out of the way along with the horn switch unit. Following an airbag deployment, the airbag cushion quickly deflates by
venting the inert gas towards the instrument panel through vent holes within the fabric used to construct the back (steering wheel side) panel of the
airbag cushion.
Some of the chemicals used to create the inert gas may be considered hazardous while in their solid state before they are burned, but they are
securely sealed within the airbag inflator. Typically, all potentially hazardous chemicals are burned during an airbag deployment event. The inert
gas that is produced when the chemicals are burned is harmless. However, a small amount of residue from the burned chemicals may cause some
temporary discomfort if it contacts the skin, eyes, or breathing passages. If skin or eye irritation is noted, rinse the affected area with plenty of
cool, clean water. If breathing passages are irritated, move to another area where there is plenty of clean, fresh air to breath. If the irritation is not
alleviated by these actions, contact a physician.
