1996 Explorer Windows

[nonova1]

1996 Ford Explorer XLT, V-8,auto,143000 miles.
I just bought this vechicle and knew that none of the windows worked and the air bag light blinks all the time. I thought the relay was bad for the windows and would be an easy fix. It's not the relay or the fuses. The switches checked ok with ohm meter. I don't think there is any power coming to the main control on the drivers door. I need a wiring diagram for the windows or maybe you guys can tell me what's wrong. Why does the air bag light flash ? I also need to know how to get the door handle "rod" off the handle, so I can replace the handle. The springs are broke. Thank you guys for any replys.

[DanD]

If you can wait until Tuesday when I’m back at work I’ll have a look for a wiring diagram.
I’ll also have a look for a test procedure for the flashing air bag light, you never know the two maybe connected somehow, not likely but you never know.
As for the door handle it’s one of those jobs that you have to keep looking until you figure it out. In all the repair manuals that I have there isn’t a description of how to remove things like that.
Dan.

[way2old]

Do you have current to the switch? If there is current to master switch, problem is master switch. If there is no current to master switch, check wiring at drivers door. The door opening and closing will cause a wire to break inside the loom that goes from door to body. As for air bag light, Dan is right with his answer. Count the flashes and post back. The light should flash a few times and have a pause and flash again. There is a probable culprit that is a common failure, but without getting code from air bag, it is a guess in the dark.

[nonova1]

Thanks guys. I look foward to your help and I'll check the things you mentioned in the morning. Thanks again.

[nonova1]

Hey Dan - Tom , The blue/black wire that goes thru the kick panel to the door switch was broke. It looked like it had been cut. I ran a new piece of wire thru the rubber boot and soldiered it in place. Windows fixed. Thank you !!!!!!
The air bag light is flashing a 52.

[DanD]

That’s great that you found the broken wire and have the windows fixed.
The Air bag system may be a little harder to figure out, flash code 52 converts to B1867, which deals with low system battery voltage. Not so much that your battery is low but the air bag system voltage is low, due to corroded connections, blown fuses or a diagnostic monitor problem.
This is where I might back away from helping with this sort of problem, if you happen to disconnect or back probe a circuit without taking all the precautions there’s a good chance of setting off the air bags. I will go as far as saying to check the fuse in the power distribution box under the hood, number 19 a 10-amp fuse. That is the battery voltage supply fuse for the diagnostic monitor and it’s also the circuit in question. Here’s a wiring diagram that shows the circuit.
Be careful; if you light off an air bag it could hurt you, it will defiantly hurt your wallet.
If it’s not a fuse think about taking the truck in and having it repaired by someone that knows the system.
Dan

[nonova]

Thanks Dan - I know the bags are expensive and quite dangerous too. Thanks for your help. rich