Deployment Outside Vehicle - Steering Wheel Module, IP Module, and Side Impact Module

2001 Chevrolet Cavalier LS, 2.4 TSECTION Deployment Outside Vehicle - Steering Wheel Module, IP Module, and Side Impact Module
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Sunfire and 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Tools Required

Deploy the inflator module 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, it is determined 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.

CAUTION: Refer to SIR Inflator Module Disposal Caution in Cautions and Notices.
  1. Turn OFF the ignition.
  2. Remove the ignition key.
  3. Put on safety glasses.
  4. Remove the inflator module. Refer to the following:
    CAUTION: Refer to SIR Inflator Module Handling and Storage Caution in Cautions and Notices.
  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 1: Illustrating Proper Storage Of Inflator Module
    GM9427Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  6. Clear a space 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 a space free of activity on the shop floor. Make sure you have sufficient ventilation.
    Fig 2: Clearance For Deployment Of Inflator Module
    GM68646Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  7. Make sure no loose or flammable objects are in the area.
  8. When deploying the steering wheel module, place the steering wheel module in the center of the space.
  9. When deploying the I/P module, refer to the following instructions:
    1. Place the J 39401-B  (2) in the center of the cleared area.
    2. Fill the deployment fixture with water or sand.
    3. Mount the I/P module (1) in the deployment fixture (2) with the vinyl/plastic trim cover facing up.
    4. To mount, use four M 6 bolts (6), nuts (8), and washers (7) in order to properly secure the I/P module (1) to the J 39401-B  .
    5. Tighten all fasteners prior to deployment.
      Fig 3: Identifying I/P Module Components
      GM453892Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  10. When deploying a side impact module, refer to the following instructions:
    • Place the J 39401-B  (3) in the center of the cleared area.
    • Fill the deployment fixture with water or sand
    • Mount the side impact module - LF (1) in the deployment fixture (3) with the vinyl/plastic trim cover facing up.
    • Adjust and secure the J 39401-B  arms (4) to the deployment fixture (3).
    • To mount, use two M 6 x 1.0 nuts (2) with washers in order to secure the side impact module (1) to the deployment fixture arms (4).
    • Securely tighten all fasteners prior to deployment.
      Fig 4: View Of Side Impact Module & Components
      GM483663Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  11. Inspect the J 38826  and the appropriate pigtail adapter for damage. Replace as needed.
  12. Short the two SIR deployment harness (1) leads together using one banana plug seated into the other.
  13. Connect the appropriate pigtail adapter (2) to the J 38826  (1).
    Fig 5: Identifying SIR Deployment Harness & Adapter
    GM68645Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  14. Extend the SIR deployment harness and adapter to full length from the deployment fixture.
    Fig 6: Extending SIR Deployment Harness & Adapter
    GM68655Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  15. Connect the inflator module (1) to the adapter (2) on the J 38826  (3).
    Fig 7: Inflator Module & SIR Deployment Harness Adapter
    GM68656Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
RENDER: 1.0x

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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.