Help with Airbag tools!!!

all4fordau · 09-10-2006, 11:30 PM

Does anyone have any idea where i can buy the special tools - (looks like a 5 sided torx) to remove the airbags so i can get to and remove the steering wheel on an AU3????

ronwest · 10-10-2006, 12:41 AM

welcome to the forums...

Check out this link (note the screwdriver mod):-

http://www.fordforums.com.au/showpos...1&postcount=59

I've also read that Repco and Autopro sell the appropriate torx (no.30 - 5 sided).

all4fordau · 10-10-2006, 07:15 PM

Thanks ronwest!!!!!! You are a life saver. I have just picked up a cruise conversion from ebay and have had many dramas with this one. I'll give Repco and Autopro a go and report back!!! CHAMPION!

ronwest · 10-10-2006, 07:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by all4fordau

You are a life saver.

Well, the other guys did the work... I just pointed you to it ;)

As a by the by, I am in the process of fitting a momo wheel to my AU.

I rang my local Repco and he had no listing of a 5 point Torx bit. I then rang Blackwoods who also have no listing :( First time in 35 years that Blackwood's have failed me.

I tried JC's screwdriver mod but it broke on two occasions.

I ended up buying a set of 5 point torx's off ebay for $50 inc postage.

Should be here in a couple of days.

Good luck with yours...

JC · 10-10-2006, 10:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ronwest

I tried JC's screwdriver mod but it broke on two occasions.

I ended up buying a set of 5 point torx's off ebay for $50 inc postage.

I've broken about 5 or 6 (worst was breaking one after I got one screw undone, which left me with nothing to do it back up with and unable to undo the other - had to make a new one on the spot with a fresh screwdriver and a hacksaw!).

I just bought the ones off ebay as well - should be here by Thursday. So anyone in ACT who needs a steering wheel changed, I only charge $10. :Reverend:

ronwest · 10-10-2006, 10:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JC

I just bought the ones off ebay as well

You must have gotten the last set. There were 2 sets when I bought mine, now there are none (when I search).

Supplier must think it's Christmas, lol.

GK · 10-10-2006, 10:32 PM

JC and Ronwest,

Can you confirm for me that it's the (#30) 5-sided bit please. I have a lead on a shop that might sell them.

Cheers,

GK

rag top · 10-10-2006, 08:00 PM

JC's screwdriver mod worked for my momo conversion!

XR6Stu · 10-10-2006, 08:08 PM

I have a set of 5 point torx's in my toolbox at work. Actual sitting in my agrage at home at the moment! The screw driver mod was a firm favourite till I got my bits!

SIKSIX · 10-10-2006, 08:19 PM

what i did was got a little screwdriver and knocked out that little knob in the middle then used a normal screw driver. with this setup you can tighten it up pretty well. Also to get the streeing wheel off i just used an allen key.

all4fordau · 10-10-2006, 08:45 PM

Thanks everyone!!! Great information and lots of useful tips. I have just tried the screwdriver mod and it has twice busted the ends off the driver. I am going to sus out ebay now and see what is available there. Fingers crossed.!!!

JC · 10-10-2006, 10:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by all4fordau

Thanks everyone!!! Great information and lots of useful tips. I have just tried the screwdriver mod and it has twice busted the ends off the driver. I am going to sus out ebay now and see what is available there. Fingers crossed.!!!

The best "bits" to use are a medium screwdriver bit that you use in a drill with a driver holder thing (something like the bits on the bottom right of the attached image). Notch the end and you may also have to slightly trim the sides to suit. Then use it with a ratchet, using a 1/4 socket and long extension, or a hand held bit driver. Push it in with some force while turning it very, very, very, very slowly and it will undo without breaking - trust me!

FTGAutosalvage · 10-10-2006, 10:14 PM

we have the genuine 5 point bit for this job , anyone in the eastern suburbs of melb is welcolm to come down and use it free of charge (in our carpark only!!)

all4fordau · 10-10-2006, 11:18 PM

I have been back at it again and the method described by SICSIX WORKED!!!!! Just use a little bit of gentle persuasion and remove the centre of the torx screw. Then use a screw driver and gently tap it into the screw head so it is a snug fit. For some extra leverage I used a pair of multi grips to help turn the screw driver. It did take patience but it did get me there!!!!! If you have the time and money to afford the 5 sided No 30 torx driver this will be easier but it is definately achievable!! My screw heads are now stuffed so I will use some Allen screws instead and make the process alot easier if iI need to service the unit in the future. New Momo and cruise control going on the beast tomorrow. Thanks for all the advice. Stay tuned for pics and update on thread sizes etc.

JC · 10-10-2006, 11:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by all4fordau

I have been back at it again and the method described by SICSIX WORKED!!!!! Just use a little bit of gentle persuasion and remove the centre of the torx screw. Then use a screw driver and gently tap it into the screw head so it is a snug fit. For some extra leverage I used a pair of multi grips to help turn the screw driver. It did take patience but it did get me there!!!!! If you have the time and money to afford the 5 sided No 30 torx driver this will be easier but it is definately achievable!! My screw heads are now stuffed so I will use some Allen screws instead and make the process alot easier if iI need to service the unit in the future. New Momo and cruise control going on the beast tomorrow. Thanks for all the advice. Stay tuned for pics and update on thread sizes etc.

Wow, I pride myself on finding good solutions to unusual problems, and I came up with the notched screwdriver. It never occured to me to remove the centre bit of the screw - ingenious solution if you have a die grinder or similar handy!!

91A · 11-10-2006, 02:21 AM

I know it's a bit off topic, but what number is the Torx bit for adjusting the U shaped door catches on the bodywork?

XR6Stu · 11-10-2006, 10:59 PM

its a T30 size regular torx bit for the u shaped door catches.