Ford: Ford Ranger Air Bag Control, backup power supply, supplemental restraint system

Question
QUESTION: Can you tell me the location of the air bag control module on a 1999 Ford Ranger?  Also are there any special precautions when replacing the control module to avoid the air bags deploying?
Thanks
Gary

ANSWER: Normaly it is in the center or the dash on the transmisson tunnel... Is there any particular reason you think it is bad? I am not asking to be a jerk but those rarley go bad... and yes... before trying to replace... disconnect the pos and neg battery cables, isolate them fromthe batt, and wait 10 mins before removing and installing... good luck....

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: The reason I replacing the module is the dash light starting blinking and then would no go out.  Occasionally it will work properly.  I had the Ford Dealer check it.  They found code B1884.  Performed pin point test, loss of ground circuit to module.  They said the module needed replaced.
Does this sound correct to you?
Thanks for your help,
Gary

Answer
Sorry for the long responce time... from what I can tell yeah.. it needs to be replaced... Here is how to do it...

Please note that it will need to be reprogrammed after a new one is installed....

REMOVAL

WARNING: To avoid accidental deployment and possible personal injury, the backup power supply must be depleted before repairing or replacing any front or side air bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) components and before servicing, replacing, adjusting or striking components near the front or side air bag sensors, such as doors, instrument panel, console, door latches, strikers, seats and hood latches.

The side air bag sensors are located at or near the base of the B-pillar.

To deplete the backup power supply energy, disconnect the battery ground cable and wait at least one minute. Be sure to disconnect auxiliary batteries and power supplies (if equipped). The Restraints Control Module (RCM) orientation is critical for correct system operation. If a vehicle equipped with an air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) has been involved in a collision in which the center tunnel area has been damaged, inspect the mounting and bracket for deformation. If damaged, the RCM must be replaced whether or not the air bags have deployed. In addition, make sure the area of the RCM mounting is restored to its original condition.

CAUTION: Electronic modules are sensitive to static electrical charges. If exposed to these charges, damage can result.

NOTE: Repair is made by installing a new part only. If the new part does not correct the condition, install the original part and perform the diagnostic procedure again.



Disconnect the battery ground cable and wait at least one minute .


 





Remove the utility tray.
1 Unscrew the two retainers.  
2 Remove the utility tray.



 





Remove the two bolts retaining the Restraint Control Module (RCM) bracket.


 





Remove the RCM with bracket.
1 Slide the RCM electrical connector locking clip to disengage it.
2 Disconnect the RCM electrical connector.
3 Remove the two bolts retaining the RCM bracket.
4 Remove the RCM with bracket.

INSTALLATION



 





Follow the removal procedure in reverse order. WARNING: The tightening torque of the air bag restraint control module (RCM) bracket retaining bolts is critical for proper system operation. NOTE: A repair is made by installing a new part only. If the new part does not correct the condition, install the original part and perform the diagnostic procedure again.
Prove out the air bag system.