Ford Repair: Air bag light, flat ribbon cable, control switches

Question
I have a 1996 Ford Explorer has 181000 on it it runs great 4.0 auto.  My problem is the air bag light came on now the horn does not work. my local tech said it probably a broken wire and it would take a long time to trace them out. but I am not comfortable with that. Is the 2 problems connected some how or do I have 2 different problems. Could it be a relay or sensor some where stuck or burnt out. Please let me know  thanks  Bob Romero

Answer
Bob,

Your explorer has a bad clockspring. Yes, the name is funny I know. It is a flat ribbon cable that is wound below the steering column and conducts power to your horn, air bag, and cruise control switches. They run about $100 for the part and an hour to install it.  You must remove the steering wheel in the centered position as the new clockspring will be marked center with tape. It will only go so many turns left and right of center.