Seat Belt Systems: Description and Operation

The Safety Belt Retractor Release Solenoids are operated by the Seat Belt Retractor Release Solenoid Timer. When the RH front door is opened, the module powers the solenoids and they are energized. The solenoids then hold the Seat Belt Retractor Lock pendulums so that the motion of opening the doors does not lock the belts. The doors can be freely opened with the seat belts buckled.

The solenoids remain energized as long as the RH front door is open. A timer in the Seat Belt Retractor Release Solenoid Timer keeps the solenoids energized for approximately 3 to 5 seconds after the RH door is closed.

Battery voltage is supplied to the Seat Belt Retractor Release Solenoid Timer at all times through Fuse 19. The Door Latch Switch is connected to an input to the timer. When the RH door opens, the door switch closes to power its input to the Seat Belt Retractor Release Solenoid Timer. The module then energizes both the solenoids through one output.

If the vehicle speed exceeds 3 mph (5 K/h) with the RH door open, the solenoids will de-energize and remain de-energized until the RH door is closed and the vehicle speed is below 3 mph (5 K/h).