Replacing B3000 Cruise Control switches

[DownSouth]

I am the proud owner of a 1999 B3000 3.0 V6. I want to replace the cruise control switches on the steering wheel because the Florida sun has melted the surface finish off of the switches and cracked the rubber underneath. They still function but they look awful, the rest of the interior is in great shape so I want to get it looking good again.

I need some advice about the airbag assembly in the steering wheel.

Can I just unplug the airbag to move it out of the way while I replace the switches? Or is there more involved? Is there anything I could do wrong to cause the airbag to go off?

 

[Earl43P]

Yeah, it's that easy.

Disconnect the battery.

Pull the cover plugs, take out the bolts, remove the airbag, disconnect it, set it aside and do the switches, being careful with removing the connectors on the wire tape.

Not hard at all.

 

[srteach]

Do not allow a static charge to build when handling the airbag, they will blow from static. In other words, touch bare unpainted metal frequently while handling them, and before and after picking them up or putting them down.
Until it is disconnected, stay away from the passenger facing side, and move it with the passenger facing side away from you.

 

[DownSouth]

Thanks for the tips. Now I just need to get the replacement switches and get 'er done. The local dealer wants $90 and it looks like I can find them online for $40-50.