Off-Vehicle Deployment

2004 Oldsmobile Bravada RWDSECTION Off-Vehicle Deployment
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2000 Buick Park Avenue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Before proceeding, See AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Turn ignition switch OFF, remove key and put on safety glasses. Short 2 SIR Deployment Harness (J-38826) leads together by fully seating one banana plug into the other. Connect appropriate pigtail adapter to SIR deployment harness. See Fig 1.
  2. Mount air bag module in SIR Deployment Fixture (J-39401-B) with vinyl trim cover facing up, on a work bench or other surface (preferably paved outdoor surface) away from any loose or flammable objects. Clear space at least 6 feet in diameter around air bag. Extend SIR deployment harness and pigtail adapter to full length from air bag module. Place a 12-volt battery near shorted end of SIR deployment harness.
  3. Connect air bag module to pigtail adapter on SIR deployment harness. See Fig 1. Ensure area around air bag module is clear of people or loose objects. Verify that air bag module is resting with trim cover facing up.
  4. Separate 2 banana plugs on SIR deployment harness. Connect SIR deployment harness wires to battery. See Fig 1. Air bag module should deploy immediately. If air bag module does not deploy, go to next step. Disconnect SIR deployment harness from battery. Short 2 SIR deployment harness leads together. DO NOT touch metal surfaces of air bag module for at least 10 minutes due to heat generated during deployment. Wear gloves and safety glasses when handling deployed air bag module. Wash hands with mild soap and water after handling. Dispose of deployed air bag module as you would any other part. Inspect pigtail adapter and SIR deployment harness for damage after each use. Repeat deployment procedure for passenger-side air bag module.
  5. Ensure that SIR deployment harness is disconnected from battery and that 2 banana plugs have been shorted together. Disconnect pigtail adapter from air bag module. Temporarily store air bag module with trim cover facing up. Contact manufacturer for proper disposal instructions.
Fig 1: Preparing Deployment Harness For Off-vehicle Deployment
G96I14009Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.