clock spring?

janalynn1 · Post by **janalynn1** » 28 Sep 2011, 10:14

i have a 2001 v70 and recently replaced the rack & pinion. now, the steering wheel controls don't work and the SRS airbag light came on in the dash. from what i've been reading on the net it seems like it might be a clock spring that needs replaced?? does this seem right?

Post by **jimmy57** » 28 Sep 2011, 13:33

Sounds right. If the steering wheel is not controlled when steering gear is removed from the shaft then the steering wheel can easily be turned and when you re-connect the steering gear you can turn wheel and go past the limits of the contact reel (clock spring).
On airbag cars this is prevented by tying a rope around one of the spokes and securing the other end of the rope to the gear lever or around door frame. Rope should be short enough to keep from going more than a half round.
You can lock the steering by removing the key but that results in the wheel being locked where the bolt is not accessible most of the time.

Post by **JRL** » 28 Sep 2011, 14:33

Who installed the rack?
I ask because it's a 95% chance that that person broke the clock spring trying to reinstall the column

janalynn1 · Post by **janalynn1** » 28 Sep 2011, 14:43

a mechanic installed the rack...he said it was a pain and ended up taking him longer than he said it would. i'm guessing he broke the clock spring too, as everything was working perfectly fine before..

randyman · Post by **randyman** » 01 Oct 2011, 12:54

Yes, it can be broken easily if you don't restrain or lock the steering wheel in position. A rookie mistake.