mountainbiker2

I took out the passenger side airbag. Don't worry I have no passenger seat. I still want the driver's side airbag to work. Do you think it will still work? The airbag light is on.

thanks,

Steve A.

Bill Curlee

Don't get to experiment too much with the SIR system but, I can give you all the service manual says about it... You will get a DTC DTC B0017 RF/Passenger Frontal Deployment Loop (Single Stage or Stage 1) Open and or DTC B0018 RF/Passenger Frontal Deployment Loop (Single Stage or Stage 1) Short to Ground/Voltage Out of Range when its disconnected / out of circuit.

There are C5s that have a passengers air bag disable switch. I will scan thru the newer years and see if i can find more info on this circuit and how it works. Maybe you can incorporate it.



:

A frontal crash of sufficient force up to 30 degrees off the centerline of the vehicle will deploy the air bags.

System Description
The SIR system consists of the following components:

Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)
Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module
Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Coil
Inflatable Restraint IP Module
AIR BAG warning lamp in the instrument cluster
The inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM), inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil (SIR coil assembly), inflatable restraint steering wheel module (driver inflator module), inflatable restraint IP module (passenger inflator module), and connector wires make up the deployment loops. The function of the deployment loops is to supply current through the inflator modules, which will cause deployment of the air bags. Deployment occurs when the SDM detects vehicle velocity changes severe enough to warrant deployment.

The SDM contains a sensing device (Accelerometer) that converts vehicle velocity changes to an electrical signal. The SDM compares this electrical signal to a value stored in memory. When the generated signal exceeds the stored value, the SDM performs additional signal processing and compares the generated signals to values stored in memory. When two of the generated signals exceed the stored values, the SDM will cause current to flow through the inflator modules, deploying the air bags.


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SIR System Component Description and Definitions
Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module
The inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) performs the following functions in the SIR system:

Energy Reserve
The SDM maintains 23 Volt Loop Reserve (23 VLR) energy supplies to provide deployment energy for the air bags. Ignition voltage can provide deployment energy if the 23 Volt Loop Reserves malfunction.

Crash Detection
The SDM monitors vehicle velocity changes in order to detect frontal crashes that are severe enough to warrant deployment.

Air Bag Deployment
During a frontal crash of sufficient force, the SDM will cause enough current to flow through the frontal inflator modules to deploy the frontal air bags.

Frontal Crash Recording
The SDM records information regarding the SIR system status during a frontal crash.

Malfunction Detection
The SDM performs diagnostic monitoring of the SIR system electrical components. Upon detection of a circuit malfunction, the SDM will set a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).

Malfunction Diagnosis
The SDM displays SIR Diagnostic Trouble Codes and system status information through the use of a scan tool.

Driver Notification
The SDM warns the vehicle driver of SIR system malfunctions by controlling the AIR BAG warning lamp in the instrument cluster via Class 2 serial data.

The SDM connects to the SIR wiring harness using the following connector(s):

The 18-way connector provides power, ground, and all the required interfaces for the frontal air bag deployment loops.

The SDM receives power when the ignition switch is in the RUN position.

AIR BAG Warning Lamp
The AIR BAG warning lamp is represented by an icon graphic. Ignition voltage is applied to the AIR BAG warning lamp when the ignition switch is turned to the RUN position. The inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) controls the lamp by communicating with the instrument cluster over the Class 2 serial data circuit. The SIR system uses the AIR BAG warning lamp to do the following:

Verify proper SIR system operation by commanding the lamp OFF via Class 2 serial data after seven flashes. The instrument cluster flashes the lamp seven times when the ignition switch is first turned to the RUN position.
When lit, alerts the driver of electrical system malfunctions that could affect the operation of the SIR system. Certain malfunctions can result in:
Deployment of the air bag(s) without a crash;
Non-deployment of the air bag(s) in the event of a crash; or
Deployment of the air bag(s) for conditions less severe than intended.
The AIR BAG warning lamp is the key to driver notification of SIR system malfunctions. Refer to the SIR diagnostic system check for proper lamp operation.

Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Coil
The inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil consists of two or more current-carrying coils. The inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil attaches to the steering column. Two of the current-carrying coils allow rotation of the steering wheel while maintaining continuous contact of the driver frontal deployment loop to the inflatable restraint steering wheel module.

There is a shorting bar on the yellow 2-way connector near the base of the steering column that connects the inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil to the SIR wiring harness. The shorting bar shorts the circuits to the inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil and inflatable restraint steering wheel module during the disconnection of the yellow 2-way connector. The shorting of the inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil and inflatable restraint steering wheel module circuitry will help prevent unwanted deployment of the air bag when servicing the steering column or other SIR system components.

Inflator Modules
The inflator modules consist of an inflatable bag and an inflator. An inflator consists of a canister of gas-generating material and an initiating device. The initiator is part of the deployment loop. When the vehicle is in a frontal crash of sufficient force, the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) causes current to flow through the frontal air bag deployment loops. Current passing through the initiator ignites the material in the inflator module. The gas produced from this reaction rapidly inflates the air bag.

There is a shorting bar on the inflatable restraint steering wheel module side of the upper steering column connector that connects the inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil to the inflatable restraint steering wheel module. The shorting bar shorts across the inflatable restraint steering wheel module circuits during the disconnection of the upper steering column connector. The shorting of the inflatable restraint steering wheel module circuitry will help prevent unwanted deployment of the air bag when servicing the inflatable restraint steering wheel module, the steering column or other SIR system components.

There is a shorting bar on the inflatable restraint IP module connector that connects to the SIR wiring harness. The shorting bar shorts across the inflatable restraint IP module circuits during the disconnection of the inflatable restraint IP module connector. The shorting of the inflatable restraint IP module circuitry will help prevent unwanted deployment of the air bag when servicing the inflatable restraint IP module, the instrument panel or other SIR system components.

Steering Column
The steering column is energy absorbing. The steering column can compress during a frontal crash in order to decrease the chance of injury to the driver.

Knee Bolster
The knee bolsters absorb energy and control the forward movement of the vehicle's front seat occupants during a frontal crash, by limiting leg movement.

Definitions
Air Bag
An inflatable cloth cushion designed to deploy in certain frontal or side impact crashes. The air bags distribute the impact load more evenly over the occupant's head and torso in order to supplement the safety belt protection.

Asynchronous
An event that can occur at any time without a warning and without falling within a defined time period.

B+
The battery voltage available at the time of the indicated measurement. With the ignition in ON and the engine stopped, the voltage is usually 11.5-12.5 V. With the engine at idle, the voltage may be 14.0-16.0 V. During engine cranking, the voltage can be as low as 10.0 V.

Bulb Test
The Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) will flash the air bag warning lamp indicator 7 times when the ignition switch is turned from OFF to RUN. The inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) then commands the IPC to turn the warning indicator OFF through serial data communication. This indicates that there are no malfunctions in the SIR system. If a SIR system malfunction is present, the IPC flashes the warning indicator seven times and the SDM then commands the IPC to turn the warning lamp indicator ON. An IPC malfunction could prevent the IPC from flashing the indicator.

Class 2
A serial data communications protocol.

Continuous Monitoring Tests
The inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) continuously monitors the SIR system during each 60 millisecond interval. The IGNITION 1 voltage at the module must be within the normal operating voltage range for the continuous monitoring to occur. These tests follow the power-on tests.

Data Link Connector (DLC)
The DLC electrically connects to many on-board computers and allows communication with an off-board computer such as a scan tool.

Datum Line
A base line parallel to the plane of the vehicle underbody or the frame. All vertical measurements originate from this base line.

Deploy
To inflate the air bag.

Deployment Loops
The circuits that supply the current to the inflator modules for air bag deployment.

Deployment Loop Voltage Out Of Range Test
This test is run during power-on and continuous monitoring diagnostics. The inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) performs this test in order to inspect for a short circuit to B+ or ground within the deployment loops. If the SDM detects a short circuit to voltage within a deployment loop, the resistance measurement test for that deployment loop will be not be run.

Deployment Loop Resistance Measurement Test
This test is run during power-on and continuous monitoring diagnostics. The inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) performs this test in order to inspect for proper deployment loop resistance. This test is run after the voltage out of range test as long as a short to B+ does not exist within the deployment loop.

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)
An alphanumeric designator used by the inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) in order to indicate specific SIR system malfunctions.

EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory)
Memory that does not require power to the inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) in order to retain its contents.

Higher Priority Fault
Each DTC has an assigned priority based on its detectability with other DTCs present. The priority corresponds to the detectability of the malfunction only. This does not relate to the seriousness of the malfunction with respect to deployment or non deployment under any given condition.

Ignition Cycle
The operation of the ignition switch causes this cycle to occur. The inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) must first sense IGNITION 1 input greater than 9.0 V with the ignition switch in RUN. The IGNITION 1 input voltage must remain above 9.0 V for at least 10 seconds before turning the ignition switch to OFF.

Ignition 1
A B+ circuit receiving power with the ignition switch in the RUN position.

Inflatable Restraint IP Module
An assembly located on the RH of the IP consisting of an inflatable air bag, an inflator, and an initiator.

Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)
The SIR control module that provides reserve energy to the deployment loops, deploys the air bags when required, and performs diagnostic monitoring of all SIR system components.

Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module
An assembly located in the steering wheel hub consisting of an inflatable bag, an inflator, and an initiator.

Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Coil
An assembly of two or more current carrying coils mounted within the steering column hub. The assembly allows the rotation of the steering wheel while maintaining continuous electrical circuit contact. Two of the coils provide continuous contact of the driver deployment loop to the inflatable restraint steering wheel module.

Initiator
Located in the inflator module, the initiator initiates the chemical reaction that inflates the air bag when sufficient current flows through the component.

Normal Operating Voltage Range
9.0-16.0 V when measuring between the inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) IGNITION POSITIVE VOLTAGE terminal and ground.

Power-on Tests
Tests that the inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) performs on the SIR system once per ignition cycle. These tests occur immediately after the module receives IGNITION 1 voltage, and before the continuous monitoring tests.

Scan Tool
An off-board computer that reads on-board computer diagnostic information through the use of a DLC.

Serial Data
The information communicated to an off-board computer using the DLC. Some of this data represents the status of the SIR system.

SIR
Supplemental inflatable restraint.

SIR Wiring Harness
The wires and connectors that electrically connect the components in the SIR system.

SOH
State Of Health

23 VLR
The 23 volt loop reserve. The energy supply that is internal to the inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM).


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Document ID# 377052
1999 Chevrolet/Geo Corvette


Special Tools Description All Class 2 Air Bag Lamps
J 38125-B Terminal Repair Kit
Use the J 38125-B Terminal Repair Kit for SIR wiring repair. This kit contains a special crimping tool, heat torch, and sealed splices. Do not use the terminals in the kit in order to replace damaged SIR system terminals unless specifically indicated by the terminal package.

J 38826 SIR Deployment Harness
Use the J 38826 SIR Deployment Harness in order to deploy a driver inflator module outside of the vehicle. Use one of the following adapters in order to connect the deployment harness to the inflator module:

The J 38826-20 SIR Deployment Harness Adapter (pigtail connector)
The J 38826-50 SIR Deployment Harness Adapter (integral connector)
J 38715-A SIR Driver/Passenger Load Tool
Use the J 38715-A SIR Driver/Passenger Load Tool only when the SIR diagnostics require the tool. The Load Tool is used as a diagnostic aid and a safety device in order to prevent inadvertent inflator module deployment.

The load tool has four yellow connectors attached to its case. The three small connectors are electrically functional and serve as resistive load substitutions. The large dummy connector does not serve as a load substitution and is not used. Use no more than two connectors at any time.

One of the small connectors is used in order to substitute the load of the inflatable restraint steering wheel module. The connector is connected at the top of the steering column to the inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil using the J 38715-30 adapter.

A second small connector is used in order to substitute the load of the inflatable restraint steering wheel module and the inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil. The second small connector is connected at the base of the steering column to the SIR wiring harness using the J 38715-90 adapter.

The third small connector is used to substitute the load of the inflatable restraint IP module. The third small connector may need to be connected to the SIR wiring harness using the J 38715-5 adapter.

Substitute the resistance of the inflator module in order to determine whether an inflator circuit component is causing a system malfunction. Use the load tool only when specifically called for in the diagnostic procedures.

J 39200 Digital Multimeter
The J 39200 Digital Multimeter (DMM) is the preferred DMM for use in SIR diagnosis and repair. The J 34029-A may be used if the J 39200 is not available. No other DMMs are approved for SIR diagnosis and repair.

J 35616-A Connector Test Adapter Kit
Use the J 35616-A Connector Test Adapter Kit whenever a diagnostic procedure requests checking or probing a terminal. Using the appropriate adapter will ensure that no damage to the terminal occurs from the DMM probe, such as spreading or bending. The adapter will also give an idea of whether contact tension is sufficient, helping to find an open or intermittent open due to poor terminal contact.

J 39401-B SIR Deployment Fixture
Use the J 39401-B SIR Deployment Fixture when deploying passenger frontal air bags, side impact air bags, or seat belt pretensioners outside of the vehicle. Use the deployment fixture in order to secure the module for deployment.

Scan Tool
The scan tool is used for the following reasons:

In order to read and clear SIR system Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
In order to provide SIR system circuit values using the data list function
Refer to the scan tool operator's manual for specific information on how to use the scan tool.


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Document ID# 390073
1999 Chevrolet/Geo Corvette


SIR Diagnostic System Check

Caution
In order to avoid deploying the air bag when troubleshooting the SIR system, use only the equipment specified in this manual and the instructions given in this manual. Failure to use the specified equipment as instructed could cause air bag deployment, personal injury to you or someone else, or unnecessary SIR system repairs.



Caution
If any water enters the vehicle's interior up to the level of the carpet or higher and soaks the carpet, the sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) and the SDM harness connector may need to be replaced. The SDM could be activated when powered, which could cause deployment of the air bag(s) and result in personal injury. Before attempting these procedures, the SIR system must be disabled. Refer to Disabling the SIR System.

With the ignition OFF, inspect the SDM mounting area, including the carpet. If any significant soaking or evidence of significant soaking is detected, you must perform the following tasks:

Remove all water.
Repair the water damage.
Replace the SDM harness connector.
Replace the SDM.
Failure to follow these tasks could result in possible air bag deployment, personal injury, or otherwise unneeded SIR system repairs.


These diagnostic procedures will help you to find and repair SIR system malfunctions. This service category also contains information for repairing SIR system malfunctions. For best results, use the diagnostic tables, and follow the sequence listed below:

Perform the SIR Diagnostic System Check. All SIR diagnostics must begin with the SIR Diagnostic System Check. The SIR Diagnostic System Check determines the following:
Proper AIR BAG warning lamp operation
Ability of the SDM to communicate through the data link connector (DLC)
Existence of SIR Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC)
Refer to the diagnostic table as directed by the SIR Diagnostic System Check. The diagnostic tables will help enable you to diagnose any SIR system malfunction. Bypassing these procedures may result in the following:
Extended Diagnostic Time
Incorrect Diagnosis
Incorrect Parts Replacement
Repeat the SIR Diagnostic System Check after you perform any repair or diagnostic procedures. This will verify that you correctly performed the repair. This will also ensure that no other malfunctions exist.
Circuit Description
The ignition switch supplies Ignition 1 voltage to the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) at terminal A1 using the SDM Fuse. When the ignition switch is first turned to the ON position, the SDM responds by performing tests on the SIR system and then commanding the AIR BAG warning lamp OFF after it has flashed seven times.

Diagnostic Aids
You must diagnose the diagnostic trouble codes in the order specified by the SIR Diagnostic System Check. Failure to do so may result in the following:

Extended Diagnostic Time
Incorrect Diagnosis
Incorrect Parts Replacement
Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

This step checks to see if the AIR BAG warning lamp flashes seven times when the ignition key is turned to the ON position.

This step checks to see if the SIR warning lamp turns OFF after it had flashed seven times.

This step checks to see if the scan tool can communicate with the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM).

This step checks to see if there are any current DTCs present.

This step checks to see if the scan tool can communicate with the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM).

This step checks to see if there are any history DTCs present.

SIR Diagnostic System Check Step
Action
Value(s)
Yes
No

1
Note the AIR BAG warning lamp while turning the ignition switch to the ON position.

Does the AIR BAG warning lamp flash seven times?
--
Go to Step 2
Go to AIR BAG Warning Lamp Circuit Malfunction

2
Note the AIR BAG warning lamp after it had flashed seven times.

Does the AIR BAG warning lamp go OFF?
--
Go to Step 6
Go to Step 3

3
Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
Install the scan tool.
Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
Establish communication with the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM).
Does the scan tool communicate with the SDM?
--
Go to Step 4
Go to Scan Tool Does Not Communicate with SDM

4
Use the scan tool to request the SIR Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) display for current DTCs.

Is there a current DTC displayed?
--
Go to Step 5
Go to AIR BAG Warning Lamp Circuit Malfunction

5
Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
Record the displayed DTCs on the repair order, specifying as current DTCs.
When DTC B0051 is set, refer to DTC B0051 Deployment Commanded .
When DTC B0053 is set, refer to DTC B0053 Deployment Commanded with Loop Malfunctions Present .
Diagnose the remaining DTCs from lowest to highest. Refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List/Type .
Has the current DTC diagnosis been performed and the current DTCs cleared?
--
Go to Step 1
--

6
Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
Install the scan tool.
Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
Establish communication with the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM).
Does the scan tool communicate with the SDM?
--
Go to Step 7
Go to Scan Tool Does Not Communicate with SDM

7
Use the scan tool to request the SIR Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) display for history DTCs.

Is there a history DTC displayed?
--
Go to Step 8
System OK

8
Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
Record the displayed DTCs on the repair order specifying as history DTCs.
When DTC B1000 is set, refer to DTC B1000 ECU Malfunction .
For all other history DTCs, refer to the Diagnostic Aids for that specific DTC. A history DTC indicates that the malfunction has been repaired or is intermittent.
Has the diagnosis been performed and all of the DTCs cleared?
--
Go to Step 1
--



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Document ID# 391982
1999 Chevrolet/Geo Corvette

mountainbiker2

Thanks Bill. My car doesn't have the switch to turn off the passenger side airbag. It wouldn't matter anyway. Taking out the airbag is different then just shutting it off.

Steve