'96 Pontiac Sunfire airbag replacement tips?

[naetholix]

Was in a slow-speed crash when my airbags went off, smashing my windshield. Windshield's replaced, and I found new parts at a wrecker for the airbag system, but I wonder if there is a trick to removal/refitting the system in my vehicle? I'm NOT going through insurance, and I plan on doing this by myself at my own risk. Just wondering if anyone out there has any tips or tricks on removing and refitting a GM Pontiac Sunfire 1996 Coupe airbag system, including the bumper/passenger seat sensor/diagnostic and the airbag modules themselves. Any help, tips, links, diagrams, etc are appreciated. By the way, I'm not a mechanics n00b, nor am I unequipped to do this. I've been working on engines and vehicles for years, but I've never dealt with an airbag system.

 

[wde3477]

Never worked on them myself - but I've heard that it's critical to ensure that the battery has been disconnected for at least 30 minutes to avoid inadvertent activations.

Also, not sure about Pontiac, but had a '95 Honda that recommended air bag servicing after 10 years - have no idea what that involves. If you're going to go to the trouble to reinstall airbags - might as well make sure you have a high confidence that they will work if needed.

Good luck, and keep us posted on how things go.