SIR Inflator Modules - Return

9218chevy05

Number: 90-104-0A

Section: 0A

Date: December 1989

Corporate Bulletin No.: 919003


Subject:
RETURN OF SUPPLEMENTAL INFLATABLE RESTRAINTS (SIR) INFLATOR MODULES


Model and Year:
1990 F, Y, M, R CARS


TO: ALL CHEVROLET DEALERS

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and most state governments regulate the transportation of uninstalled Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) inflator modules. While new, uninstalled service parts can be shipped as a flammable solid under a special exemption, undeployed inflator modules removed from a vehicle do not currently qualify under this exemption.

Until further notice, undeployed inflator modules removed from the above noted 1990 model year vehicles are to be retained. Undeployed inflator modules must not be disposed of due to hazards that could result from unwanted deployment if the inflator is mishandled. Additionally, undeployed inflators contain sodium azide, a potentially hazardous substance which is hermetically sealed in a metal container in the inflator. During deployment the sodium azide undergoes a chemical reaction which converts it to harmless nitrogen gas. Deployed inflator modules (i.e., those deployed during an accident) can be disposed of through normal service part disposal procedures.

It is anticipated that further directions will be provided within the next three months so that the undeployed inflator modules can either be returned in accordance with applicable regulations, or safely deployed at the dealership.