air bag light on after changing oil pan gasket

[GuttaFixIt]

Hi, I have a 2000 Chevy Venture. I replaced the oil pan gasket. I had to drop the frame to get the oil pan out. When I put it back together I had no steering. I found that my steering knuckle had came apart under the dash.
BUT before I knew this I turned my steering wheel.
I read I wasn't supposed to move the steering wheel. But that was to late.
I put it back in place and now my airbag light stays on all the time. How can I get the airbag light to work correctly.
My steering wheel turned around and around freely.
It's back together and I'm driving it but that light bugs me. lol
Thank you, Dan

[Tech II]

Yeah, unfortunately, you learned the hard way that you have to release the intermediate shaft, if you drop the cradle too low....

Now by rotating the wheel too many times in either direction, you probably broke the clock spring mechanism in the SIR system.....this is a coiled circuit that maintains electrical continuity with your air bag when you turn the wheel....looks like this:



You are looking for part #12.....You have to verify this by getting the SIR code and testing the circuit up the column......however, I recommend you leave this to the pros....you do not want an air bag going off in your face, not only because it is dangerous, but also because it is expensive to replace if it goes off....

If it's diagnosed as the clock spring, and you are determined to do it, then get a manual to learn how to DISABLE the SIR system, and the get the tools and procedures to remove the air bag and steering wheel......If you have any experience replacing a directional switch, the procedure is similar, because you will have to route the SIR harness down the column.....

But again, I warn you not to do this unless you get a manual and follow the disable procedure first....

[LMP]

This is as good an advise as can be.....take it at face value...