Jshores

I have 2008 f150 that I bought salvaged both airbags were deployed.
I have both airbags and a new SRS module. I am comfortable doing the replacement.

I need to know if I need to go to the dealership for a computer flash?

If I must go to the dealership, can I install everything prior to going and just have them reset the computer?

GATORB8

Looks like your okay without a flash for the airbags themselves:

Removal and Installation

WARNING:

• Always wear safety glasses when repairing an air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) vehicle and when handling an air bag module. This will reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accidental deployment.
• Carry a live air bag module with the air bag and trim cover pointed away from your body. This will reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accidental deployment.
• Do not set a live air bag module down with the trim cover face down. This will reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accidental deployment.
• After deployment, the air bag surface can contain deposits of sodium hydroxide, a product of the gas generant combustion that is irritating to the skin. Wash your hands with soap and water afterwards.
• Never probe the connectors on the air bag module. Doing so can result in air bag deployment, which can result in personal injury.
• Air bag modules with discolored or damaged trim covers must be replaced, not repainted.
• To reduce the risk of personal injury, do not use any memory saver devices.

NOTE:

• The air bag warning lamp illuminates when the RCM fuse is removed and the ignition switch is ON. This is normal operation and does not indicate a supplemental restraint system (SRS) fault.
• The SRS must be fully operational and free of faults before releasing the vehicle to the customer.
• Repair is made by installing a new part only. If the new part does not correct the condition, install the original part and perform the diagnostic procedure again.

1. Depower the system.
2. Remove the 2 steering wheel back cover plugs.
3. Remove the 2 driver air bag module bolts

1. Partially remove the driver air bag module from the steering wheel.
2. CAUTION: The clockspring electrical connectors are unique and cannot be reversed when connected to the driver air bag module. Match the electrical connector key to the keyway in the driver air bag module. Do not force the electrical connectors into the driver air bag module during installation. Disconnect the driver air bag module electrical connectors.
3. Disconnect the horn switch electrical connector and remove the driver air bag module.
4. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
5. Repower the system.

GATORB8

It doesn't mention any diagnostic/flash equipment in the control module replacement either.

Jshores

Thanks, that was what I was hoping for.

foolwitools

I have read that the air bag system has a back-up power supply of some sort that keeps power to the air bags for a few minutes after the battery has been disconnected.

so I guess I want to say that you should disconnect the battery maybe 15/20 minutes before you work on the system. just to be sure.

Kinda strange that the safety systems can be the most dangerous to work on.............

seniorFORDtech

you shouldn't have too flash(pmi) the new RCM, but I would expect that the seat belt pretensioners would have also fired and would need replacing.I would replace the rcm and both air bag modules. see if your light is out if it still is on most likely the pretensioners are fired off. And yes if you needed to take it to the dealer you can install everything then bring it in..

Good Luck