What is the function of the clock spring?
What is the function of the clock spring?
In vehicle steering systems a clock spring or clockspring is a spiral-wound special rotary electrical connector which allows a vehicle’s steering wheel to turn while still making an electrical connection between the steering wheel airbag and/or the vehicle’s horn and other devices and the vehicle’s electrical systems.
Why is it called a clock spring?
The clock spring is not really a spring at all, but it gets its name from the look of the coiled ribbon inside the housing. This coiled ribbon resembles the shape of a spiral torsion spring, but does not compress and release stored energy the way an actual spring would.
What is a clock spring called?
Clock Spring Alternative Names Alternative names for the clock springs are clock spring coil, coil assembly, cable reel assembly, coil spring unit and contact reel.
Where is the clock spring in a car?
It allows the car’s wheel to be turned in a circle while maintaining an electrical connection with the wiring system. Clock spring coils come in different sizes depending on the car. The clock spring winds unique electric conductor tape and is housed in a plastic retainer. It is located in between the steering wheel and the column.
How to set a new clock spring youcanic?
1 Start the engine and let it idle. 2 Turn the steering wheel all the way to the right. 3 Turn the steering wheel all the way to the left. 4 Repeat this procedure twice with the engine running. 5 Drive for at least 50 feet, and the steering angle sensor will reset.
Which is the correct way to spell clock spring?
Both “clockspring” and “clock spring” are correct ways to spell this word. As a matter of fact, this car part is called by a number of different names, including spiral cable, coil assembly, clock spring coil, cable reel assembly, contact reel, and coil spring unit.
Why do clock springs need to be replaced?
Clock springs have a big hand in this too, as they act as the bridge between the electrical wiring of the car and the car’s steering wheel, wherein the airbag is located. In addition to ensuring our safety when we are inside our automobiles, these springs are quite heavy-duty and rarely need to be replaced.
Where does the clock spring get its name?
This device is sometimes referred to as a spiral cable, airbag clock spring, steering wheel clock spring, clock spring assembly, cable reel, or contact reel, depending on the vehicle and where you live. The clock spring is not really a spring at all, but it gets its name from the look of the coiled ribbon inside the housing.
How does a clock spring work on a car?
As you turn the steering wheel, the coil of wires within the clock spring winds and unwinds, maintaining an electrical connection for the airbag and steering wheel controls.
1 Start the engine and let it idle. 2 Turn the steering wheel all the way to the right. 3 Turn the steering wheel all the way to the left. 4 Repeat this procedure twice with the engine running. 5 Drive for at least 50 feet, and the steering angle sensor will reset.
What happens if you spin the clock spring?
If you were to spin the clock spring a rotation or two and then reinstall it, you may not have enough slack in the internal ribbon before the steering wheel hits full lock. In this case, you run the risk of stretching or breaking the internal wires and damaging a perfectly good clock spring.
