Hi, all!

I'm hoping for a quick response here! I am at this moment in the process of replacing the airbag clockspring on my 2002 Jag XJ8. The airbag, steering wheel and lower shroud are removed and I am looking at the installed old clockspring. But my JTIS CD does not tell me specifically how to release or detach the steering column upper shrould (or if it does, I've missed it). I've tried everything I can see or think of, but I certainly don.'t want to break or damage it! It seems to be unattached on each side but firmly attached somehow at the center top.

If I can solve this one unexpected problem I should be home free.

Thanks,

Alvin Burns,
aeb-fjb@swbell.net

 

screws underneath, get them out, and peer up, you'll see 3 more, you'll need a flashlight, and a magnetic screwdriver....by the way, this is with your back on the kickplate, looking up at the lower side of the upper column - how are you at contortion?

 

Thanks, Sean B!

I (FINALLY) found them, did all the contortions and got them out. They are TINY and you almost have to reach to China to get to them. I am in your debt for your prompt response; it was exactlly what I needed.

With your kind help I replaced the clockspring, put it all back together and, best of all, it fixed the problem (an airbag warning light on constantly: Code B22930).

After all the contortions today, I may spend some of my savings on back linament (i'm 79 years young),

I have worked on steering columns before but this was my first Jag experience; it took me all day because I had to sniff of every electrrical connection before I disconnected it to be sure I didn't crack some plastic in the process. But as amateurs have to do, I traded time for experience and got it done. As usual I could do it much quicker next time.

By the way, my dependable independent Jag mechanic couldn't get a trouble code with his new computer reader software which he was not sure was completely installed. He didn't charge me anything. The Jag dealer charged me $190 for the diagnostics and to 'repair' what they called a short in a wire under the driver's sead. They estimated the clockspring plus installation labor would be an additional $500, but they would have to order the part so I stopped there.

Studying my JTIS CD, I was disappointed that it didn't specifically cover R&R for the clockspring but decided to try it. I found the genuine Jag part (#LNG6470AA) at: parts@jaguarparts.com for $143.00 plus $10 shipping. Needless to say, I am a very happy camper!

Thanks again for your help.

.

 

Well Done Alvin!