Hi all,

I've got a new airbag that I'm installing into a 98 bonneville se... Anything special I need to know? How about an online manual? I'm going to be getting one of my mechanic friends to help, but I still have no idea where to start.

Good luck, that seems like a risky project.

On a side note, I thought only certified professionals could install airbags?

Per 98 manual.

1) Position Wheels pointing straight ahead.
2) turn ignition off and remove key
3) Remove AIRBAG 1C fuse from IP Junction Block
4) Remove lower driver kickpanel from under dash
5) Remove the Connector Position Assurance (usually green) from the Yellow 2-way connector located at base of column and disconnect the 2-way connector.

That should disable the steering column airbag. Then remove the two T25 torx from behind it and slowly remove the old airbag. removing the connector. It will also help to disconnect the battery as an extra safety percaution.

Good luck with the replacement.

I'm in agreement on having a professional do it. I believe they need to test the part of the system that detonates the bag.

Yeah, I would agree with letting a professional as well. i was looking at the manual and there is about 20 or so pages on testing it, and none of which I want to do myself, nor would reccommend doing. Not saying the airbag won't work if you don't have a professional, but it'll give you some piece of mind knowing it is right. What I provided above is incase you decide to do it yourself.

besides the actuator to fire the air bag...

I remember the manual saying to let the car sit w/o power after unhooking the airbag for a certain amount of time to discharge stored power. Not sure, but be careful..last thing you need is an airbag going off while trying to install.

Exactly... one wrong move, and i've got one hell of a black eye!

I think I'll cruise by the local Pontiac dealership today and see what they think... or rather, what unreasonable price they want to charge. Thanks for the advice, ya'll