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.
Yes, it does sound like water intrusion is playing a big part in your problems. The least expensive thing you can do for you truck is to keep it dry. Either replace the windshield and make sure it is properly sealed (also check the door seals)or park the truck in a garage if there is a chance of rain.
I have a 1998 f150xl and when its wet out or raining after driving when i turn the truck off my heater fan will stay going.. if i turn it to off here and there my headlights will come on and you can hear relays twitching out under the dash… i do have a crack in my windshield that runs across the whole bottom of the window…. does this sound like my gem is getting wet… it does dry out and start working proper again.. should i get a new windshield and go from there to see if it stop… also my 4×4 light does kick on and off while the rest of these problems are happening.. would rather not spend to much money as this truck is going down hill on me have 255000km and have a shift 2-3 code error i rather not drop to much into this money pit
Jerran
Pull the door panel and apply 12 volt power and ground to the motor terminals. If it just sparks reverse the wires. Make sure all body parts (yours and the vehicle’s)are clear of moving objects.
Have a 2002 Exped that has similar issues as described in this post. I have the driver side window down a bit and need to get it back up while I wait on the GEM to be delivered.
In your vehicle the module is referred to as a SJB (smart junction box). It is a solid state device and there is nothing inside to clean or adjust. SJB’s in Ford vehicles are starting to fail and will likely be an ongoing concern. At this time the only fix that I know of is replacement. I did a little research and found that some have taken the box apart and tried resoldering connections/components only to have a no run condition develop. As a result I would urge caution on DIY repairs to the SJB.