Question

[Dy_]

clock spring, what is it? something to do with airbag?

[Paul1985]

Wrong post, look below...

[Dy_]

what is it and what does it do exactly? thanks btw!

[Paul1985]

sorry, i was wrong. it is to do with airbags... Heres some info:

Automotive steering wheels for passenger cars and light to medium trucks typically have crash triggered inflatable air bag devices as part of their occupant safety systems. To assure a reliable path for an electrical signal to reach the air bag inflator firing unit, a solid wire connection is used. Because the steering wheel rotates relative to the instrument panel, a device looking much like the main spring on a mechanical watch is used for this function from which the name "Clock Spring" or rotary connector has evolved.

This conductor or tape often contains additional discrete parallel electrical conductors for cruise control, radio, and HVAC system steering wheel controls. The winding and unwinding of the multi-conductor tape (clockspring) typically generates noises and sounds considered objectionable in today’s very quiet vehicle interiors. The sliding of the tape on the housings and other rotating hub interfaces generate wear issues.

taken off: http://www.syn-techlube.com/Airbag%20rotary%20connectors.htm

[markoJEK1]

Basically it makes sure its transmitting a fully functionaly electric signal / connection with the airbag just incase anything happens, if this is damage this also could result in your steering wheel possibly not rotating properly in a full lock turn / the SRS unit might be damaged also , someone correct me if im wrong

[Dy_]

so its basically a digital plug behind the airbag?

[Paul1985]

u damage it if you have the steering rack disconnected as you can turn the wheel freely, you turn it to much and you will damage the spring.

[blk_shadow]

so its basically a digital plug behind the airbag?

its a round piece (with a hole in the middle) with a wire connector that connects into your airbag module behind your steering wheel.