Removing and installing the steering wheel (Mondeo 1 and 2)

Warning: All models are equipped with an air bag. Follow the precautions given in Chapter 12.

Removal

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable (chapter 5 paragraph 1).

Warning: As a precaution, wait at least 15 minutes in case of accidental airbag deployment. This time is necessary for the capacitor charge to dissipate.

2. Turn the steering wheel to the straight-ahead position.

3. Remove the screws and the upper and lower steering column covers. Remove the airbag module mounting screws from the back of the steering wheel.

4. Carefully remove the airbag module from the steering wheel and disconnect the airbag electrical connector and horn wiring connectors.

Warning: Store the airbag in a safe place with the front side down.

5. Make sure the steering lock is unlocked. Remove the locking bolt from the center of the steering wheel (see Fig. 27.5).



6. Remove the steering wheel from the top of the steering column, passing the horn and airbag wiring through the hole in the steering wheel hub (See Fig. 27.6).

Installation

7. Make sure the front wheels are in the straight ahead position. Then install the steering wheel onto the steering column.

8. Install the lock bolt and tighten it to the specified torque while holding the steering wheel (see Fig. 27.8). Do not tighten the bolt when the steering lock is closed to avoid damaging the lock.



9. Connect the horn electrical connectors and the airbag electrical connector.

10. Install the airbag module/horn contact to the steering wheel. Then insert the mounting screws and tighten them.

11. Install the upper and lower steering column covers. Insert and tighten the screws.

12. Connect the negative battery cable.