Deployment Outside Vehicle-I/P Module and Steering Wheel Module

Deploy inflator modules outside of the vehicle when the vehicle will be returned to service. Situations that require deployment outside of the vehicle include the following:

• Using the SIR diagnostics, you determine that the inflator module is malfunctioning.
• The inflator module is cosmetically damaged (scratched or ripped).
• The inflator module pigtail, if equipped, is damaged.
• The inflator module connector is damaged.
• The inflator module connector terminals are damaged.

Deployment and disposal of a malfunctioning inflator module is subject to any required retention period.

Tools Required

• J 38826  SIR Deployment Harness
• J 39401-B  SIR Deployment Fixture
• J 38826-75 Steering Wheel Module Adapter
• J 38826-80 I/P Module Adapter

1. Turn OFF the ignition.
2. Remove the ignition key.
3. Put on safety glasses.
4. Remove the inflator module. Refer to the following:
   • When removing the steering wheel module, refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Replacement .
   • When removing the I/P module, refer to Inflatable Restraint Instrument Panel Module Replacement .
Fig 1: Illustrating Proper Storage Of Inflator Module
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
5. Place the inflator module with the vinyl trim cover facing up and away from the surface on a work bench, floor or deployment fixture.
Fig 2: Clearance For Deployment Of Inflator Module
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
6. Clear an area on the floor approximately 1.85 m (6 ft) in diameter for deployment of the inflator module. If possible, use a paved, outdoor location free of activity. Otherwise, use an area free of activity on the shop floor. Ensure that you have sufficient ventilation.
7. Ensure that no loose or flammable objects are in the area.
IMPORTANT: Dual stage deployments are only used in steering wheel and I/P inflator modules. If stage 1 was used to deploy the inflator module, stage 2 may still be active. If disposal of a deployed or undeployed dual stage module is required, both deployment loops must be energized to deploy the air bag.
8. When deploying a steering wheel module, place the steering wheel module in the center of the cleared area.
Fig 3: Identifying I/P Module Components
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
9. When deploying an I/P module, refer to the following instructions:
   • Place the J 39401-B  (2) in the center of the cleared area.
   • Fill the deployment fixture (2) with water or sand.
   • Mount the I/P module (1) in the deployment fixture (2) with the vinyl/plastic trim facing up.
   • To mount, use 4 M 6 bolts (6), nuts (8), and washers (7) to properly secure the I/P module (1) to the deployment fixture (2).
   • Tighten all fasteners prior to deployment.
Fig 4: Identifying SIR Deployment Harness & Adapter
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
10. Inspect the J 38826  and the appropriate pigtail adapter for damage. Replace as needed.
11. Short the 2 SIR deployment harness (1) leads together using one banana plug seated into the other.
12. Connect the appropriate pigtail adapter (2) to the SIR deployment harness (1).
Fig 5: Extending SIR Deployment Harness & Adapter
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
13. Extend the SIR deployment harness and adapter to full length from the deployment fixture.
Fig 6: Inflator Module & SIR Deployment Harness Adapter
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
14. Connect the inflator module (1) to the adapter (2) on the SIR deployment harness (3).
IMPORTANT:
• The rapid expansion of gas involved with deploying an inflator module is very loud. Notify all people in the immediate area that an inflator module will be deployed.
• When the inflator module deploys, the deployment fixture may jump vertically. This is a normal reaction of the inflator module due to the force of the rapid expansion of gas inside the inflator module.
15. Clear the area of people.
Fig 7: Separating Banana Plugs
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
16. Separate the 2 banana plugs on the SIR deployment harness.
Fig 8: Connecting SIR Deployment Harness Wires To Power Source
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
17. Place a 12 V minimum/2 A minimum power source, i.e. vehicle battery, near the shorted end of the SIR deployment harness.
18. Connect the SIR deployment harness wires to the power source. Inflator module deployment will occur when contact is made.
19. Disconnect the SIR deployment harness from the power source.
Fig 9: View Of Deployment Harness Leads
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.