Clock spring

CLOCK SPRING

The clock spring, detail B on the previous page, is a device which is fitted on the steering column switch unit which allows the AIR BAG module connecting cables fitted on the steering wheel, to follow the rotation of the latter without danger of breaking. The device comprises two plates with the lower one fixed to the steering column switch unit by bolts (8). The upper plate is fixed to the steering wheel by two elements on the upper section.

Inside the two plates, the connecting cable for the module and the horn buttons are wound round in a spiral allowing them to follow the movements of the steering wheel.

The clock spring is fitted with a safety device which automatically stops it rotating when the steering wheel is removed. This operation prevents the upper plate which is no longer attached to the steering wheel from rotating freely causing the cables to unwind or wind unexpectedly, with the possibility of them breaking.

When the steering wheel is refitted, the device is automatically released.

WHEN REMOVING AND REFITTING THE CLOCK SPRING IT IS NECESSARY TO MAKE SURE THAT IT IS REFITTED ON THE STEERING COLUMN SWITCH UNIT IN THE SAME POSITION AS WHEN IT WAS REMOVED.

If, for any reason, the upper clock spring plate has rotated in relation to the lower one so that the position during the removal is no longer known, THE CLOCK SPRING MUST BE REPLACED.

If the clock spring is being replaced, it should be fitted with the wheels COMPLETELY STEERED TO THE RIGHT, because this is the position corresponding to the new device. The new device is fitted with a safety tab (7) which keeps it locked. This tab should be removed when fitting the steering wheel to allow the system to rotate correctly.