This 1997 Ford F150 needs the GEM module changed due to multiple conditions. To see testing that lead to this repair please click here. The GEM module is located at the rear of the interior fuse box.
The first step is to remove the trim panel that covers the gap between the upper side of the steering column and the dash. It just unsnaps from the dash. It makes it a little easier to remove if you move the shifter all the way down to drive 1.
With that out of the way the lower dash cover can now be removed. Most of the screws have 7 mm heads but there are two that have 8 mm heads.
Those two are at the lower edge of the fuse box.
One wiring harness needs to be disconnected from the panel.
Now the screws for the fuse box can be removed.
The wiring harnesses can be removed from the back of the fuse box. Two 10 mm headed bolts at the center of each connector.
Next remove the tube brace from around the bottom of the steering column. Four fasteners with 13 mm heads.
Now wiggle, pry and twist the fuse box and GEM module assembly down.
After the assembly is down far enough unplug the remaining harness connectors from the GEM module.
Almost there.
The assembly is now free of the vehicle.
The GEM module is held to the back of the fuse box by three phillips headed screws.
Easy to remove Now.
With the three screws removed the GEM unplugs from the back of the fuse box.
I put it all back together and checked my repair for power to the driver’s power window switch.
If you can see the door lock move a little bit when commanded you likely have faulty door lock actuators. You could have poor voltage or ground supply as well. Voltage testing should begin at the actuator wiring. Your odometer problem is poor connection in the solder joints at the rear of the odometer.
Thanks Sparky! I will test the actuators then. I appreciate your help.
Vincent
I have a 1999 Ford F 150.. my power door locks are not working correctly when I press the button you can see the locks will just a little bit. but they will not lock nor will they unlock. when I put the truck into gear the doors try to lock but they never do. is this something that the GEM module will cause to happen? hey man at the auto parts store told me he thinks it might be a grounding issue. and that got me to thinking because my Odometer and my trip meter are digital and sometimes it gets so damn that I can’t even read it unless it is dark outside and other times it gets bright and it works perfectly normal. could my problem be a grounding issue or a relay problem or could both of these problems be because of the gem module? can anyone help me figure this out?
Since your 1996 F250 does not use a GEM I would say it is not your problem. From the sounds of your complaint, you have a loose major power or ground connection somewhere. Check the cable connections at the battery. Make sure all are clean and connected.I have seen more than one with a single ground wire off at the battery negative terminal with similar problems. There are also connections at the starter relay that need to be checked. Fusible link conditions. Body grounds at the inner fenders, radiator support and behind both kick panels. The ground cable connection at the starter area can also be loose.
1996 Ford f-250 GEM Modular question. My friends truck just all of a sudden lost all functions. Put the key in, nothing. Then soon a clikking sound from a black box just to the right of the steering wheel. First thing was to check the battery, done, 12.25v. Now here’s the problem, we live off the grid and 30 miles from Grants Pass Oregon. I’m trying to troubleshoot the problem and some strange things occur. No power to starter, lights, etc. however the glove box light will come on and cause this box to clik. The clik will stop when brake pedal is engauged. 1. A clik, clik, clik comes from the black unit in the center of dashboard to the right of the steering wheel…is this the gem mod? 2. Considered the culpret to be the aftermarket alarm so removed that from system. 3. With the key OUT removed fuses one by one. #8 15amp (courtesy/dome/speedo/warning chime) when removed will stop the clikking and #13 (anti-lock brakes/brakeshift interlock/electronic engine control/speed control/stop-hazard lamps/ stop sense for electronic engine control will stop the clikking. Also when key is turned clockwise before starter position the clikking will stop. Bad GEM, short …I’m baffled and have no read-out equipment. Answerwould be very welcome. Thanks
mendo
There are many people selling them on EBay. I believe that Cardone, also rebuilds them and they should be available through most major parts stores.